As Police section commander for Weymouth and Portland I would like to clarify the police response to cycling on the Esplanade.

The police and the council work in close partnership with each other on a broad range of issues that affect Weymouth and Portland.

This partnership approach is extremely effective but it does not mean in any way that the independence of the police is compromised.

Dealing specifically with cycling on the Esplanade, common sense must prevail. For example, if a family, parents and young children, decide to take their bikes down to the beach on a sunny day riding slowly and considerately along the Esplanade they will be riding in contravention of the law.

However, given that this reasonable type of cycling is what the council have resolved to permit, should these riders pass a Police Officer or PCSO , that officer will exercise his or her discretion and I would expect no action.

If on the other hand a cyclist was riding carelessly with scant regard for their own safety or that of others and they come to police attention they will be dealt with.

The process used does not rely on the use of local byelaws, there are also other offences that can be considered, including the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Public Order Act 1986. In these cases where offences have been committed offenders can expect due process to follow.

The police will respond to public concerns and one way the public have an opportunity to voice their concerns is through the Partners and Community Together (PACT) process.

For example, one of the current PACT priorities for Radipole is 'the use and installation of audible warnings on push bikes'.

The fact that this is now a PACT priority for the area the local officer, PC Kevin Eames will actively engage on this issue and report back to the PACT panel at the meeting as to the progress that has been made.

This process is open to all and I would encourage anyone who has local concerns, such as cycling on the Esplanade to engage in this process.

Dorset police is committed to making Dorset safe and feel safe for all those who live in or visit the county. Locally all my officers and myself are committed to providing the best policing service we possibly can to the people of Weymouth and Portland.

Pete Meteau, Section Commander Weymouth and Portland, Dorset Police.