We are pleased to share this update from Dunbar Cycling Group.
Access updates
The footbridge from A199 near A198 junction over the railway and the A1 underpass are due to be signed in the near future. The track is rather overgrown but is due to be maintained shortly -a great route south towards Biel and Stenton.
Eweford farm is still flouting the Access legislation -hopefully East Lothian Council’s legal team will get the gate opened very soon. Beveridge row, potholes a plenty is a poor alternative, although it’s possible to divert into the houses and cycle through the new estate.
Foxlake have been given a gate to provide 24 hour access for cyclists and walkers without having to lift your bike, or climb, over the current gate. This is of greater relevance as the evenings draw in. Hopefully this will be installed soon.
Biel Estate. Please report any instances of being told you should keep out of the Biel Estate. A resident who has no authority from the estate, insists that cyclists should not be able to exercise their access rights. His behaviour to cyclists has constituted harassment and if you experience similar, should be reported to Nick Morgan, ELC Access Officer
Spott Dunbar Path. Covid has been an element in the stalling of the project, the path still has wide support. Check the website for further info.
Other news
Minister for Active Travel. Patrick Harvie (Scottish Greens) has been appointed in the new Government. We can but hope that this will result in greater emphasis on cycling infrastructure. Article from CyclingUK
Highway Code Changes. After consulting the UK government is pushing ahead with the changes to the code, improving conditions for cyclists. Good news.
Dr Bike East Linton Tool Library have been hosting Dr Bike sessions and a Fix your own bike workshop.Please email Rosie Harrison: eastlintontoollibrary@gmail.com for future workshop dates. Dr Bike will be visiting scouts and guides in Dunbar and east Linton over the coming weeks.
Pump Track. Steve Wands (Club & Community Sports Development Officer) working for ELC is promoting pump tracks. There is currently a consultation in North Berwick and he is keen to hear from interested folk in Dunbar. He has been in touch with the Dunbar Pump track Community Group led by Tom Corfield and Lynsey MoodyThanks to Tom and friends for working on the Lochend woods pumptrack, clearing vegetation. Contact Steve: swands@eastlothian.gov.uk for further info and to offer your support.
Rides
Dunbar Community Cycling Club and Dunbar on Yer Bike both hold regular rides that everyone is welcome to join. Of particular interest are the Easy Riders (led by Mark James). First Saturday of the month- A couple of hours of modest paced pedaling.
Ebike loan A four year interest free loan from Home Energy Scotland of up to £6K for either two ebikes or one e cargo bike. (Thanks to Taylor for info)
Events and Meetings
Fix your own Bike workshop– run by East Linton Tool Library the next workshop, Sat Oct 2nd, is fully booked. There may be a waiting list.
COP26 Pedal on Parliament are organising rides to the event. Sat 6th Nov. We may organise a local event. A pilgrimage (walking) from Dunbar to Glasgow will be launched in Dunbar with a series of events coordinated by Northlight Arts including a talk by Alastair MacIntosh on Sunday Oct 17th.
Finally – Our East Lothian Council Councillors are supportive of cycling but need letters/emails asking for improved cycle facilities. By contacting them they will have evidence to support them. If you have any issue, do get in touch with your councillors as well as your local Community Council.