Improvements to shared use paths on Midsummer Common

Improvement of shared use between pedestrians and cyclists on pathways on Midsummer Common. At present there is conflict between different users of the footpaths on Midsummer Common. Pilotting a series of awareness and design interventions, which may, if successful, have application on other public open spaces with heavily-used paths, which are shared between cyclists and pedestrians. Paths across Midsummer Common are heavily used by both pedestrians and cyclists and all hard surfaced areas are shared. The paths for both type of user represent convenient, off-road transit between different parts of the city centre and several bridges crossing the river to the north of the city and along the riverside itself, as well as for general recreational use for exercise and wellbeing as would be expected of a public open space. There is concern about mutual conflicts between all types of user, which relates to safety, comfort and enjoyment of the space and its efficacy for movement. It is recognised that ongoing manual enforcement of standards is unlikely to happen. It is therefore necessary to evaluate potential physical awareness and design measures, particularly focused on entry points and key pinchpoints and to do so by trialling and consultation with key stakeholder groups, minimising clutter to the greatest degree possible.  Supported by Friends of Midsummer Common and ward councillors.