Forget the sign: cyclists can use bridge

MYSTERY MESSAGE: The Aramoho rail bridge is open to cyclists, despite what the sign says. PHOTO/STUART MUNRO

Cyclists are allowed to cross the Aramoho rail bridge, despite signs that indicate otherwise.

The "no cycling" signs were recently noticed at the Somme Parade end of the bridge, confusing cyclists who regularly use it.

Whanganui Bicycle Users Group co-ordinator Lyneke Onderwater said she has never encountered problems sharing the bridge with pedestrians. "You can't ride very fast across the bridge because it is quite bumpy and people are always considerate, in my experience."

Senior roading engineer for Whanganui District Council Rui Leitao has confirmed the signs should not be there and will be removed by council staff.

"They have actually been there for about 30 years and maybe people have just noticed them because they have been moved higher and repainted."

Mr Leitao said the council applied for funding from the Urban Cycleways Programme to widen the pathway but the application was placed in reserve.

"That means it was not successful this time around but it may come up for approval at a later date." The council leases the pathway from Kiwirail. Mr Leitao said an upgrade would cost about $1 million.

The Wanganui District Council was successful in obtaining Urban Cycleways Programme funding for Te Tuaiwi (The Spine) and City to North Mole shared pathways to begin over the next two years.