There was some conflict on Thursday 9 November 2006 at the bridge over Claisebrook Railway station. Accounts of the incident vary, but it seems that there was conflict between cyclists and pedestrians; and between cyclists and railway guards, with the result being that, according to the guards, several cyclists behaved inappropriately; one cyclist fell off his bike; and at least one cyclist was served an infringement notice, having been told that cycling on the bridge was prohibited and attracted a $200 fine. View the media article

As a result of discussions today with Main Roads WA, which owns the bridge, and the PTA, which has jurisdiction over the railway station, and some of the participants in the fracas, the BTA can confirm the following:

1. Cyclists are entitled to cycle over the Claisebrook Railway bridge. The Claisebrook bridge over the railway, including the connection to the south side, is included as a key part of PBN on page 17 of the PBN Plan document (available as online PDF) and also mentioned on page 28 as being part of PBN Stage 1. The bridge is owned by MRWA. Only the ramps leading to the actual railway platforms are considered part of the train station, NOT the three approach ramps from the streets.
2. There are no signs prohibiting cyclists from cycling on the bridge. There is a sign on the Robertson Rd approach (pictured above) warning cyclists to give way to pedestrians, as we are always legally obliged to do. There are signs on the ramps (picture below) down to the railway platforms banning bicycles, skateboards and so on from the platforms. One of these signs has been incorrectly placed on the Royal Street road ramp, just as you leave the overpass. PTA will remove this sign. MRWA will place a "Give way to pedestrians" sign on this ramp, to match the one on the Robertson Road side.
3. Rail guards do not have the authority to issue infringement notices to cyclists who are not on the railway station. The infringement notice that was issued this morning will be withdrawn.

What can we do?

• Protest vigorously if there is any future attempt to restrict cycling on the bridge.
• Write to the Minister for Infrastructure and Planning urging that she instruct the PTA to move the ticket machines – a major cause of danger to both pedestrians and cyclists – off the bridge and down on to the railway platforms; and that she instruct MRWA to put in line markings across the bridge to guide foot and wheeled traffic.
• Ride sensibly – we all get branded with the same brush if one or two cyclists ride like idiots through congested areas. Treat fellow travellers as if they are your friends.