Representatives of many of the island’s active travel groups are reminding motorists to be mindful of those who may be walking their dog, cycling or riding their horse along the narrow lanes.
Road Users Network chairwoman Jennifer Merrett was pleased that so many of the groups had got behind the initiative.
‘We want everyone to enjoy the peace and serenity that Ruettes Tranquilles offer, but also respect others who may be using them as we move into the warmer part of the year and more people use active travel,’ she said.
Along such lanes, which are marked with a green sign, a hierarchy of users is detailed, as well as the recommended maximum 15mph speed limit.
Walkers are given top priority, followed by cyclists and then those on horseback.
‘Those in cars should give plenty of time and space if encountering any of these groups in Ruettes Tranquilles,’ Mrs Merrett said.
Living Streets secretary Rob Gregson said the lanes were ‘great’ for tourism, and gave ‘breathing space’ to pedestrians looking to get away from traffic.
‘They’re peaceful and they encourage active travel, as well as being great for physical and mental health. It only takes one person in car to be going too quickly along one of these lanes and potentially cause an accident, so it’s important that motorists are mindful of those not in a car or on a motorbike.’
Guernsey Bicycle Group member Philip Le Poidevin said Ruettes Tranquilles provided safe spaces for families, especially those with young children.
‘If you’ve got kids learning to ride a bike, for example, they’re perfect,’ he said.
‘It doesn’t take long for people to pass one another, cars may only need to stop for a moment but that can be so helpful for people on bikes and others.’
Mick Fooks, who helped introduce the concept of Ruettes Tranquilles back in the late 1990s, working with the States’ Tourist Board, said he was pleased with how they had evolved. ‘I think now they’re well-established and people like using them for walking,’ he said.
‘Hopefully this will remind motorists to adhere to the signs and recognise the dangers that could be round the sharp corners if you’re going too quickly.’
