Some changes are to be made in Cassiobury Park over the coming weeks in a bid to make the park safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

Paths are to be resurfaced, markings repainted, and more shared spaces to be introduced over the next few weeks.

Watford Borough Council, which manages the park, says the work is designed to encourage more people to walk and cycle in the long-term.

Read more: 

One of the biggest changes will see the line that separates cyclists and walkers on the path that runs to the Cha Cha Café removed.

A council spokesman says this idea has been developed in consultation with Friends of Cassiobury Park.

Watford Observer: This white line is set to removed to create a 'shared space' like in other parts of the parkThis white line is set to removed to create a 'shared space' like in other parts of the park

They explained cycle lanes can cause riders to speed so hope by creating a shared space, it reduces that risk. The decision will be kept under review.

The council added it will work in partnership with Watford Cycle Hub and Friends of Cassiobury Park to provide free advice and training for cyclists of all ages and abilities as part of its “considerate cycling” initiative.

However, there are no plans to make any changes to the path that runs downhill to Daisy’s in the Park.

Watford Observer: The downhill path that runs to Daisy's in the Park in Cassiobury ParkThe downhill path that runs to Daisy's in the Park in Cassiobury Park

A runner suffered a broken foot, cuts, and bruises after she was wiped out from behind by two youths travelling on the same bike in March.

The victim’s husband says he had witnessed a number of near-misses and suggested cycling should be banned in this part of the park.

Watford Observer: Watford mayor Peter Taylor pictured first right cycling in Cassiobury Park. Credit: Watford Borough CouncilWatford mayor Peter Taylor pictured first right cycling in Cassiobury Park. Credit: Watford Borough Council

Speaking about the planned work, Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “With cycling and walking becoming more and more popular in the town, we are committed to enabling residents to continue to cycle and walk, and giving people the best facilities to do so.

"We will also ensure training and awareness is put in place, so that all users of the park, including dog walkers, runners, children, walkers and cyclists can enjoy the park together.

“The works will also play an important role in helping people choose a more active way to travel, achieving our net-zero emission target and getting people to enjoy the health, environmental and economic benefits that cycling and walking offers.”