New rules have been introduced to prevent cyclists from riding on Windsor and Maidenhead High streets.

Cyclists will soon be banned from riding in the pedestrianized areas of King Street and High Street, Maidenhead and Peascod Street, in Windsor, as the majority of councilors have passed a new public space protection ordinance – which will last for three years.

If stopped by police or community guards, cyclists face a fine of £ 100, reduced to £ 75 if paid within 10 days.

Windsor Observer indicates that a sign will be erected to warn cyclists to get off when approaching the zones.

According to the report, community wardens claim to have witnessed “numerous incidents” of cyclists causing “alarm and distress” to residents as they crossed the High Streets.

Senior Public Protection and Parking Member Councilor David Cannon (con artist) said the new ordinance was designed to “change” the behavior of residents and deter anti-social behavior.

However, Councilor Gurch Singh (Lib Dem) was concerned that the £ 100 fines were too high for cyclists and called for it to be reduced to £ 50.

He said: “One thing that Covid and the closures have shown us is that we have a lot of residents going out on bikes and finding new places in the borough.”

He also asked if the private company District Enforcement, which enforces the waste and fly dumping rules on behalf of the council, will ensure this.

Cllr John Baldwin (Lib Dem) added he was concerned about ‘choke points’ at Maidenhead as parts of King Street would require cyclists to hop on and off again.

He said, “I’m just worried that we have a bunch of guys standing at this choke point and handing out tickets like they’re old-fashioned.”

In response, Cllr Cannon said the ordinance would be reviewed annually and could be adjusted “ at any time ” if complaints were made to the community caretakers.

Cllr Cannon said district-level law enforcement would be considered to enforce this new ordinance, but that it would operate under council policy – which is to educate before applying a fine.

Regarding the fines, he said the council had already agreed to the costs and should be reviewed during their next review of fees and charges.

An eight-week consultation was launched in December to ask the public what they think of the plans.

According to the report, nearly 300 people responded to the online consultation, with a majority saying they strongly agree or agree with the measures.

There were 36 councilors who approved the decree, one against and three abstentions.