Guards patrol new boardwalk at London development to stop cyclists

Security guards will patrol a boardwalk at a new multi-billion London development to stop cyclists from riding on it.

The bright red Canada Water boardwalk in south London is part of a 53-acre development to deliver the capital's first new high street in a century.

The £4bn development from British Land, designed by architect Asif Khan, will bring in retail, education and work facilities along with up to 4,000 new homes, a park and a town square.

But the boardwalk is pedestrian only, so walkers can enjoy a 'moment of reflection' while 'pleasurably crossing the dock'.

It is out-of-bounds for cyclists, who will be watched by guards employed to make sure they don't ride on the new attraction.

Signs will also instruct cyclists to dismount before going onto the wetlands walkway, which is designed to sustain local wildlife.

The weaving timber bridge is said to be inspired by the history of the Surrey Docks and its role at the heart of the timber trade during the 19th and 20th centuries.

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A spokesperson for British Land said cyclists would instead be able to use designated cycle routes which are 'more direct'.

'The boardwalk was designed to be a pedestrian footbridge that offers the local community a moment of reflection on their daily journeys, and the opportunity to connect with nature whilst pleasurably crossing the dock,' they said.

'Our approach to managing public space balances the safety of all those using it with creating a welcoming environment for all.

'Cyclists will be able to use designated cycle routes and the local road network, which are more direct than going across the boardwalk.

'There will be more than 4km of new walkways and cycle paths at Canada Water, along with 10,000 bike spaces and three Santander cycle hire stations.

'This year we've already delivered 300 new bike spaces, while we have committed £30 million to invest in local transport, prioritising pedestrian and cycle routes.'

Architect Asif Khan, who also designed the new London Museum and is behind the renewal of the Barbican Centre, said he hopes his public landmark can help people to 'take a breath and look at things in a new way'.

Councillor Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development at Southwark Council, said the boardwalk forms part of a 'masterplan' to transform the area into a new town centre.

'It's amazing that the new boardwalk is already proving so popular with local people, as a new way to connect with wildlife, the area's unique history, and each other,' she said.

'The renewal of Canada Dock is a key part of our plans to transform a historic London docklands location into a distinctive, new waterside town centre in partnership with British Land.'