Minimum Width of Footpaths for Safe Use by Pedestrians and Cyclists

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport given that pedestrians have to share footpaths with cyclists (a) whether the Ministry will review the minimum width for all footpaths so that there is sufficient room for both pedestrians and cyclists to use them safely; and (b) when will the Ministry roll out a comprehensive policy to give clarity to the rules governing the use of bicycles, e-bikes, personal mobility devices, and the enforcement and penalties for offenders.

Our footpaths are generally about 1.5 metres to 1.8 metres wide, but can be as wide as 3.6 metres where there is high pedestrian traffic. New footpaths along roads will be at least 1.8 metres wide. For existing footpaths, we will widen them where we can.

Footpaths can be found nearly everywhere. Allowing cyclists to share them with pedestrians is helpful as we promote and facilitate safe cycling. However, we clearly prefer dedicated cycling paths and will continue to expand the network of cycling paths in all our Housing and Development Board towns. As we have said before, cyclists must be considerate and gracious on footpaths and always give way to pedestrians. This is for their safety and that of other path users.

The Active Mobility Advisory Panel had released to the public its full report and recommendations in March this year. As announced at the Ministry's Committee of Supply debate, the Government has accepted in full the panel's recommendations. We will need some time to put them into legislation. This should be done by the end of this year. In the meantime, the Land Transport Authority, together with the Traffic Police, National Parks Board and Town Councils, will be stepping up our enforcement and education efforts, including through posters and pamphlets.