Delta Park bike trail hits bump

Construction of the 8km mountain bike trail in Delta Park has been put on hold due to a setback with authorisation.

The trail that will run along the perimeter of the park in a clockwise direction will be specifically for cyclists.

Until now, cyclists and walkers have shared paths.

Construction of the trail started but has since been put on hold because it merges with an existing path.

According to Joburg City Parks rules, for the bike trail to be official it must be completely separate from paths where there are walkers.

Plans are now to construct the new trail.

“We are waiting for the go ahead from City Parks,” Said Gavin Pelser, a representative of African Mountain Bike Association, the group organising the trail.

The new trail would separate cyclists and walkers, which would lead to fewer incidents where people or animals are harmed.

“There have been far too many incidents with walkers and bikers,” Said Delta Park volunteer and publisher of its online newsletter Shirley Tebbutt.

“Let me stress it is not every biker, but the ones who are inconsiderate, riding far too fast and verbally abusive are too many. Bikers have attacked and hit walkers. A lot of dogs have been hit by bikes and badly injured.”

Blairgowrie resident Ron Carlin rides in the park three times per week and would “definitely” use an official bike trail.

“I would use it because it would keep me away from pedestrians. There are blind corners you can’t see around. I go more slowly but there are more reckless riders. Youngsters have no fear and go quickly. Next thing there is an old lady. I have seen accidents. Dogs have also bitten me. Some dogs are out of control and should be kept away from cyclists.”