Douglas residents warned about the dangers of cycling in the city centre

Fines of up to £2,500 can be handed out to those caught

Douglas Council says it's had complaints about 'dangerous' cycling in the city centre. 

Under the local authority's byelaws cyclists caught riding in Strand Street, Castle Street and Duke Street can receive a fine of up to £2,500. 

Douglas City Centre Manager Oliver Cheshire said: "As an authority we have long supported plans to encourage more people to cycle in and around Douglas. 

"It is good for our health and wellbeing, the environment and is so enjoyable.

"Not only does the council support active travel but it has also published its own Active Travel Strategy and Action Plan a few years ago with cycling very much at its core. 

"We also installed secure bicycle lockers in Shaw’s Brow car park.

"However, we do need to just gently remind people from time to time about the safety of shoppers in the centre who can be put at risk by those who flout traffic restrictions and the byelaws."

Inspector Chas Maloney said: "Just like Douglas Council the Isle of Man Constabulary recognises the importance of enabling cyclists to travel around in a safe manner. 

"We also recognise the importance of ensuring people feel safe when visiting the city centre and the significance of mitigating any risk or harm caused.

"We have witnessed, first-hand, cycling through the main shopping centre - some of it is quite reckless and dangerous which makes some pedestrians feel unsafe. 

"Those responsible are a small minority of individuals who act in an irresponsible manner and put themselves and pedestrians in the area at risk, some of whom are less able and/or visually impaired.  

"Therefore we would ask cyclists to dismount and walk with their bicycles through all pedestrian zones."