LOCATIONS for new cycle lanes in Denbighshire have been suggested by members of the public, who believe that certain areas could benefit from the addition of dedicated paths for cyclists.

We asked readers where in the county would benefit from dedicated routes for cyclists.

The idea of converting the old railway line into a cycle route to connect St Asaph, Denbigh, and beyond was particularly popular among commenters.

A network of routes connected communities including St Asaph, Ruthin, Rhuddlan, Denbigh and Rhyl was also mooted.

Paddy Taylor said: "Preferably using the old railway line. This is the perfect route to connect St Asaph, Denbigh and beyond. Unfortunately it seems very unlikely to ever happen. DCC seem to be very focused on (in my opinion) incorrectly interpreting active travel as meaning putting in very short sections of cycle/foot paths in built up areas only."

Kevin Ringer said: "The cross-country (Rhuddlan to Rhyl) v next-to-main road (Rhuddlan to St Asaph) v former-railway (Prestatyn to Dyserth) has been rumbling on for years. The answer is a network, but a network has to start somewhere. The cross-country/former-railway routes are better for leisure and families but they're not good at getting people out of cars. In fact they can increase traffic and parking problems either end of the route. Next-to-main-road is better for utilitarian cycling (actually getting from one place to another eg commuting). Everyone has different goals. I prefer getting from one place to another, so that's roadside. The advantages include the council already own the roadside verges, they could convert as much as the budget allows then merge into the existing highway, then next year when they get the following year's allocation, build another stretch, over time building the entire route. Also, maintenance is easier and there is less crime.

Mike Ellis said: "Wasn’t there meant to be plans for a velodrome in Ruthin? Could then link a bike path from that to Denbighshire. That would centralize Ruthin as a location and bring in streams of revenue through membership, events and sponsorship."

Ben Hardy-Jones said: "Connecting Ruthin to all the surrounding villages (e.g., Llanbedr, Llanfair) is very much needed, similarly to the Ruthin to Rhewl cyclepath."

Vicki Riley said: "From Ruthin to Denbigh. I'd use it too."

Doreen Davies asked: "Are there any around Corwen? I don't know of any."

However, there were also those who expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of cycle lanes and believed that cyclists prefer to use the roads instead.

Rob Francis said: "What’s the point? Cyclists just ride on the road anyway and don’t bother using them."

Danny Dyche said: "Make the roads better as the cyclists don't use the paths."

Paul Milnes said: "More cycle lanes? Don’t you think enough millions have been spent for cyclists not to use them already?"

Keith Hulse said: "They all use the roads, what's the point?"

Others believed that money should be directed towards improving roads and fixing potholes instead.

Rachel Parry said: "Forget cycle lanes, sort the pot holes out first."

Dave Southgate said: "Why waste money on this? Try sorting out the roads, they are a bl**dy disgrace."

Meanwhile, others said there was little point in light of the incoming reduction of 30mph speed limits to 20mph in Wales.

Tony Ridgway said: "May as well turn all of the roads into cycle lanes, once the 20mph kicks in that's what it will feel like."

Frank Hill said: "That’s where the stupid 20th sign etc money should have been spent."

Moreover, there were comments indicating a general lack of trust in cyclists to adhere to the designated lanes and follow traffic rules.

The comments also revealed a certain level of animosity towards cyclists, with accusations that they do not follow traffic rules and hold up other vehicles on the road.

Margie Roberts said: "Into the sea."

Easton Geoff said: "On the borders of Denbighshire into other counties."

Barbara Moulton said: "Just designate a field for them to ride round and round on."

Trevor Jones said: "Denbigh Quarry, springs to mind, only joking, one pulled out on me two weeks ago in Henllan, whizzed passed a give way sign."

Gwil Ewok Ritchie said: "Save your money the lycra brigade doesn’t know how to use them."

Christopher A Myring said: "I’d like to see more enforcement to use them instead of cycling next to them and holding up traffic!"

In response, Mark Hannant said: "Honestly! The amount of hostile anti-cycling aggression on here sums up exactly why cycle routes should be developed. And the reason serious cyclists don't use the existing cycle paths is because they are more dangerous and less convenient than the road. This is because our councillors also subscribe to the anti-cycling agenda."

In conclusion, the public has suggested various locations in Denbighshire that could benefit from new cycle lanes.

While there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of cycle lanes and whether cyclists would actually use them, it is clear that there is a need for improved infrastructure and communication to accommodate all road users.

The debate surrounding the development of cycle lanes serves as a reminder of the importance of considering multiple perspectives when planning transportation initiatives.