Lorraine Williamson
Marbella’s city council has introduced a temporary ban on bicycles and electric scooters along the city’s popular promenade. This will be effective until September 30.
This measure, designed to improve pedestrian safety, comes as the summer brings an influx of visitors to the coastal city.
Safety first: Restricted areas and allowed zones
The restriction is aimed at high-traffic areas where pedestrians are most vulnerable. The following sections of the promenade (paseo) are affected:
The hard pavement between La Bajadilla and the fishing port, the roundabout from La Fontanilla to Alhambra del Mar, the stretch from Río Verde to Naciones Unidas in Puerto Banús, and the promenade of San Pedro. These areas are considered pedestrian-only zones, and bicycles and scooters are prohibited.
However, certain parts of the paseo remain open to personal mobility vehicles, such as the sandy paths and wooden sections, including the coastal path and the promenade of Albero.
Riders are expected to follow strict rules when using these areas;
- staying on the right
- yielding to pedestrians
- maintaining a speed limit of 10 km/h
- refraining from dangerous behaviour like zigzagging
A necessary response to summer crowds
The decision comes after a noticeable rise in pedestrian numbers, particularly in July. The paseo is a central hub for visitors and locals alike, whether for strolling, exercising, or enjoying the seaside atmosphere. Several incidents involving collisions between pedestrians and scooter or bicycle users prompted the city council to take action, aiming to reduce accidents and ensure a safer public space.
National regulations reinforce local measures
In addition to Marbella’s local measures, national regulations on electric scooters remain in place. Riders are prohibited from using scooters on pavements, pedestrian areas, interurban roads, highways, tunnels, urban roads, and expressways. Furthermore, riding while using a mobile phone or wearing headphones is also illegal, and carrying a second person on a scooter is not permitted. These regulations aim to reduce the risks associated with electric scooters and enhance public safety across the country.
Source: MálagaHoy