The Royal Parks have re-opened the controversy over whether the 20mph speed limit for cars on roads through Richmond Park also applies to cyclists.

The issue has re-emerged following the creation of a number of so-called traffic calming measures in Richmond Park, including 'courtesy crossings' and a contra-flow chicane, which critics say risk creating accident blackspots.

The Royal Parks has promised a safety review of the measures following complaints from cycling groups and an accident last week where a cyclist went over his handlebars.

The cyclist braked quickly after a car in front suddenly stopped because the driver was unsure whether he had right of way at a new contraflow at the bottom of Sawyers Hill, near the Roehampton Gate.

Cyclists claim new 'traffic calming' measures are putting them at risk (Credit @Bigdai100)

Rights of way and safety on roads through Richmond and Bushy Parks have become a source of increasing conflict between pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

Cyclists repeatedly complain that 'bully' drivers are putting them at risk through close-passes, while pedestrians complain Richmond Park has been turned into a velodrome with angry cyclists, many racing to complete laps, accused of abusing those on foot.

There is no legal speed limit on cyclists on public roads and – on the face of it – there is no byelaw that allows the Royal Parks to impose one in Richmond, Bushy Park, or any others it is responsible for.

However, the organisation issued a press statement to Nub News stating categorically that there is a 20mph speed limit for cyclists.

Talking about the accident last week, a Royal Parks spokesperson said: "We are very sorry to hear that a cyclist was injured when he braked ahead of a courtesy crossing point, and we wish him a speedy recovery.

"Safety is our priority, and the courtesy crossing point was installed to improve pedestrian safety so that people, especially children using the nearby sports pitches, could cross the Beverly Brook Bridge safely, and no longer need to walk in the road to do so."

Promising a review, the spokesperson said: "We worked with consultants to design the measures and conduct a safety audit. The measures are also compliant with national best practice. In addition, we are conducting a safety review following the installation of these measures, to consider if adjustments are needed.

Cyclist injured at new 'traffic calming' chicane in Richmond Park (Credit Richmond Park Cyclists)

"Several signs either side of the courtesy crossing indicate that road users must slow down and give way, and 'rumble strips' are incorporated to slow traffic in advance."

On the issue of speed limits, the spokesperson added: "We welcome all considerate road users, however pedestrians have priority as they make up the majority of park visitors.

"Therefore, a 20mph speed limit is in place for all road users to maintain a safe environment for pedestrians of all ages, and to protect road users, as well as wildlife - particularly as wild deer may behave unpredictably and run across park roads.

"On park roads, the Highway Code applies and is enforced under the Highways Act."

This statement is at odds with one issued by the Royal Parks in 2021, which said: "There is no speed limit for cycling on Britain's roads as cyclists are not required to have a speedometer.

"It is the same in the Royal Parks, although we do ask that cyclists observe the motor vehicle speed limit for the park, the road or path in question. This varies from 5mph to 20mph."

Asked to confirm whether the 20mph speed limit applies to cyclists, the spokesperson insisted that it does. The Royal Parks has been asked to provide a copy of the byelaw that identifies this speed limit.