Final say on plans to ban cyclists from A63

It's the final few hours to have your say on whether you think it's safe for cyclists to ride on the A63.

Highways England are proposing a ban on a 15-mile stretch of the road due to fears over safety.

They say six accidents involving cyclists, including one fatality, have taken place on the road in the last five years.

It's a popular route for time trial events with Bradley Wiggins also taking part in a time trial on the A63 in the past.

Local cyclist Ed Neilson regularly rides along the road and is strongly against the plans. He's been speaking to our reporter, Natalie Bell:

British Cycling and Welcome to Yorkshire have also opposed the plans.

Chief executive of British Cycling Julie Harrington and Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity, said:

"Any ban imposed on cyclists would have a negative impact on the local economy, as well as people's ability to participate in the sport ahead of a potentially hugely significant year as Yorkshire looks forward to hosting the 2019 UCI Road World Championships.

"If speed and density of traffic was accepted as a reason to ban cycling, cyclists would be banned from the vast majority of our roads. If approved, this approach will set an extremely dangerous precedent."

Highways England insist there are safer alternatives for cyclists in the area. A spokesperson told Viking:

“The safety of everyone who uses our roads is our highest priority. The A63 is a busy road and a large number of HGVs leave the docks and use the route to join the M62. There are alternative, safer routes available for cyclists.

“Due to a large amount of interest in this scheme we have decided to extend the period which people can comment on the proposed ban by three weeks, until Monday 12 March. This will allow interested people and groups more time to give us their opinions which will be considered before any final decision is made."