MADAM,

On behalf of the visually impaired of Monmouth I would like to express both appreciation and regret with regard to living through 2015 in Monmouth.

The ‘pinch point’ trial at the top of Monnow Street is certainly proving to be a welcome improvement as it enables us to walk along the pavement far more safely. Shame on those who deprecate the scheme. Have they forgotten that the old bridge created a pinch point for many years without loss of trade or that the pelican crossing and shop deliveries continue to do so?

The county council have been attempting to regulate obstructions on the pavement in Monnow Street for over 10 years and balance their responsibilities for public safety with those for enterprise. Although some traders do act responsibly others appear to think they have a right to position obstacles on land they don’t own and deny unobstructed passage to their potential customers.

When one considers that 97 cyclists were killed on UK roads in 2015, it’s understandable why an increasing number of cyclists mount the pavement to avoid traffic. Although some cyclists do dismount on seeing pedestrians, many don’t as I experienced one-day crossing the Wye bridge when I faced a stream of cyclists coming towards me.

Thinking that the law had changed, I called in at the police station only to be informed that it remains illegal to ride a bicycle on the pavement.

Property owners are obliged to cut their own hedgerows to keep pavements clear of obstructions but few are vigilant enough to remove obstructions to pedestrians through the growing season. It is not so easy to dodge brambles and overhanging branches when you can’t see them.

As we consider what new year resolutions to make, can we spare a thought for the visually impaired and those with mobility problems in our town?

David Hoyle

(Monmouth Visually Impaired Club)