A new City of Edinburgh Council campaign has been launched encouraging people to be mindful of others when using Edinburgh’s shared paths.
With more people choosing to walk, cycle, jog or wheel, the city’s network of off-road paths is busier than ever, so we’re sharing top tips to help people exercise and travel safely.
Through social media, digital and citywide advertising, the ‘Summer’s Here’ campaign asks everyone to look out for one another and follow guidance for using the paths, such as:
- give each other space
- take it easy and slow right down when on your bike on a shared path
- stay left and pass on the right
- keep your dog on a lead in busy areas
- stay alert, especially if using headphones or your phone
- remember that not all disabilities are visible – slow down and give enough warning
Councillor Karen Doran, Transport and Environment Vice Convener, said: “Being able to get out and about and exercise on our fantastic network of off-road paths has been a saving grace of the pandemic, and we want to make sure people can continue to do that safely and comfortably.
“It’s no surprise these are busy, popular routes, where everyone can walk, jog, cycle or wheel, so we just need to be mindful of one another when we make use of them. Through the Summer’s Here campaign, we’re sharing handy tips and advice to help everyone to enjoy and benefit from these shared-use spaces.”
The city council is reminding residents and visitors to take extra care in areas where people walking, wheeling and cycling share the same space. Advice for different groups includes:
Cyclists
- Use your bell to let people know you are there well in advance, especially at blind corners
- Give others space
- Don’t pass at speed
- At night – avoid dazzling others with your lights: dip, dim, don’t strobe
Walkers and runners
- Listen for cyclists’ bells
- Allow cyclists to pass
- At night, think about whether you are visible to others
Dog walkers
- Keep dogs on a short lead or close to heel
- Clean up after your dog
- At night, use a reflective collar or coat on your dog
Find out more on the Paths for Everyone website.
You can also find guidance from Sustrans and from Scottish Cycling for walking and cycling safely as lockdown measures start to ease on their websites.
