ON reading your front page article (February 1) regarding a proposed underpass for cyclists under the A386, I became increasingly alarmed to discover that this proposal comes as part of a package of measures which appear to include turning pedestrian pathways through the Meadows, where cycling is clearly signed prohibited, into highways for cyclists.

Leaving aside the canal walk about which some councillors are reported to have reservations, may I point out that St John's Avenue is a busy thoroughfare for shoppers and commuters who use the Riverside car park.

Additionally, the gate leading to Benson's Meadow is very narrow and the pathway through both steep and narrow; the footbridge cannot safely accommodate cyclists and pedestrians and I have experienced or seen several near misses on this path between cyclists and pedestrians and on the blind corner between the footbridge and the path leading along the back of the cottages.

I have enjoyed the Meadows for over 30 years in varying circumstances and in various ways; as a parent of young children bringing them to feed the ducks and pay on Stumbles; as a refuge from the noise of the town to enjoy the comparative tranquillity of the riverside walks; as a student en route for school; as a commuter — such a lovely route to work; as a dog owner Benson's Meadow affording one of the very few safe places for her to run around; as a person with limited mobility but perhaps most of all as a one-time non-driver when the Meadows was a lifeline.

Young families still come here, older people and those with disabilities take their exercise here, children (including the school bus) still pass to and fro to school and spend their recreation time here, people still walk through to work or shop or exercise their dogs.

Safety for pedestrians and cyclists is a contradiction in terms. Before the town councillors sell off our heritage, can they assure us that effective measures are to be taken to preserve the safety and enjoyment of the existing users of the Meadows?

Mrs H M Badgery

12 Dolvin Road

Tavistock