Cyclists, pedestrians and motorists have spoken out in a debate over sharing Marlow’s roads after a report by the Marlow Free Press last week over safety fears on a new £300k cycleway.

Following Marlow Bottom resident John Prosser's worries that a new shared path linking Marlow and Marlow Bottom could be dangerous for pedestrians, some readers have weighed in to support the scheme.

Cyclist Katie Breathwick, who recently moved to Marlow from London, said Bucks drivers do not often give those on two wheels as much respect as in the capital.

And after former Mayor Derek Done said cyclists should be fined for riding on the pavement, she said other solutions should be found.

She said: "I’ve never cycled on the pavements myself, but as a pedestrian, I’ve often shared the pavements with people on two wheels, and it’s never been a problem for me.

"Marlow is such a lovely place to live, but its provision for cyclists leaves a lot to be desired. In my experience, some drivers round here find it difficult to share the road.

"Go to places like Cambridge and the bike is part of the culture. It could be like that in Marlow, and we could have a healthier population and a greener environment to boot.

"Let’s not talk about fines for cyclists - let’s think about how we can make it easier for everyone to get on their bike."

The new £300k project which links Burford School and Great Marlow School came under fire last week over the possible risks of the shared surface between pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport for Buckinghamshire said that cycle signs have been erected this week to make the shared use clear, however they will remain covered until work is fully finished in mid-April.

Some readers agreed with Mr Prosser's concerns over the stretch, with Sheila Leonard taking to Facebook to say it was "highly dangerous for pedestrians especially for children".

Others say it is a good move, with drivers attitudes and the condition of the roads meaning it is not safe on Marlow’s roads for those on two wheels.

Resident Adam Day said: " Cyclists aren't the problem; motorists are for not giving cyclists enough space and forcing them onto the pavements.

"The local issue of potholes proves a real hazard for cyclists in Wycombe District Councils authority. This is really highlighted once you cross over to Windsor and Maidenheads authority where they improve noticeably.

"There really is a much wider issue here. Especially if we want to encourage more people to ditch their car."