Comment: Bristol cyclists and drivers need counselling

It is fair to say Bristol's cyclists and motorists have not had the best of relationships.

Some would describe it as stormy, and some members of both sides are seemingly unable to see any good in the other any more.

They have grown further and further apart over the years and it seems like they have very little in common any more other than the use of wheels.

They were originally brought together in a union on the city streets but those streets have become a battleground.

Like most squabbling couples, there have been innocent victims. The authorities have stepped in on many occasions to prevent upset, but there have been many distressing incidents. At times the law has been broken, for example when the cyclists have resorted to using the pavements or running red lights.

The cyclists say they are being pushed to breaking point by the motorists and the roads are often too dangerous. Stress levels all round have been through the roof.

It's a relationship in need of some counselling but instead it has got Councillor Jon Rogers.

Mr Rogers wants to close part of the Portway to cars, as part of a plan to give families what he describes as a "fantastic opportunity" to cycle on a main road in safety.

Motorists, in the shape of the Association of British Drivers, are furious. It may take some serious counselling to bring both sides together on this one.

The principle behind Mr Rogers' idea – floated after Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride on Sunday – is great.

The problem may be the location. The Portway is one of Bristol's main roads. A better suggestion may be to close parts of the Downs to traffic on Sundays. The Downs is already a place for leisure and the upset would be less significant.

Mr Rogers has good intentions, but the proposal will need to be well thought out or we could be looking at an irreconcilable separation.