YOUR editor s note is correct in stating an area has been supplied further along the beach lawns as a Bike Park.

YOUR editor's note is correct in stating an area has been supplied further along the beach lawns as a Bike Park.

However, considering the excellent facility that the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG UK) had campaigned for next to the Tourist Office, which was opened by the Mayor of Weston and was attended by the Weston Mercury, the 'temporary bike park' is not at all a patch on what was closed.

On a recent weekend it was full to over flowing, with the public being able to wander through with their kids running amok, also a climbing wall was erected next to the bike park.

Considering we are told the Bike Park was closed for 'Health & Safety' reasons, it would appear that no such thoughts were given to the temporary bike park.

As to it being a temporary affair, MAG have received information that it is to be closed permanently, due to the re-modelling of Weston's Seafront next year, and MAG is very concerned that we will lose the facility altogether.

MAG UK also publishes a National Motorcycle Parking Brochure in which the secure Bike Park of which Weston could be proud was listed. As the premier seaside town of the North Somerset Coast, when riders visit it they should feel welcomed with a secure place to leave their motorcycle knowing it would be there for their return journey.

GEORGE LEGG

Western Region MAG Political Officer

Stowey Road, Yatton

COMMENT:

It is correct that we shall be looking for a new permanent location in the future Pier Square proposals for a motorcycle park but I have made clear to officers that it needs to be in the general vicinity of the old one. In the meantime the current site is temporary and relocation by the Tourist Information Centre is an option towards the end of this year if the Wheel closes.

In terms of health and safety, actually it is also true that the original motorcycle park also overflowed frequently in the summer months with bikes parked on the pavement and on the grass by the Tourist Information Centre. In fact, having counted the space at the relocation, there is actually room for more bikes, not less.

We are very supportive of bikers, both young and old and I can assure them all that they will not be forgotten in the future revamps. They just need to be patient, reply to the consultation on Pier Square when it is released this month and work with us.

COUNCILLOR ELFAN AP REES

Deputy Leader