I WOULD like to comment on the letter from Chris Ruoff regarding the Granite Way cycle path (Times May 29).
I note Chris Ruoff says ?cycling has an important part to play in reducing the pollution and congestion caused by motor vehicles?. Our experience, from living next to an access point to the cycle path, is entirely the opposite. We observe motorists driving to the cycle way, unloading their bikes to go for a ride, returning and driving off ? increasing rather than decreasing motor vehicle use in a quiet country area.
I do not intend to criticise people for this ? they are fully entitled to access and use their leisure time as they choose ? but please do not make assumptions that leisure cycling somehow decreases the use of motor vehicles.
On the ?tarmac? issue, I note that the planning application for the Bridestowe Station to Lydford section of the cycle path specified a stone finish ?on environmental grounds?
Presumably, the environment immediately to the south of Bridestowe Station is considered more sensitive than that immediately to the north, or Chris Ruoff?s arguments for a tarmac finish, including cost and durability, would have outweighed other considerations
The change of surface does not, however, deter motor-bike users and even the occasional four-wheeled vehicle from using this section, in addition to the ?speedy? cyclists.
J M Dunse
The Station House
Bridestowe