Advice about the Commons' Byelaws

With the temporary suspension of cycling in Richmond Park from Saturday 28th March, there is potentially going to be some additional pressure on the Commons and our visitors.

We posted yesterday with some advice on visiting the Commons with suggestions on how you can help with some simple changes and we would reiterate that advice again today – keep that 2m (6`6”) distance and keep everyone safe.  We ask runners and cyclists in particular to adhere to that 2m (6`6”) rule.

Despite the position we find ourselves in, our Byelaws here on the Commons are still very much in place and will be enforced by our Keepers.  They are here to protect the Commons, our flora and fauna, as well as our visitors. 

A helpful reminder of the most pertinent for now are:

Cycling

Cyclists, please only cycle on the designated shared use pedestrian and cycle tracks – if you are not sure where they are, there is a map available here.  The rule of thumb here is if there isn’t a sign saying you can cycle, then you can’t.

• Always give way to pedestrians
• Slow down around pedestrians
• Don’t exceed 10 mph
• Always use you bell to alert other users if you are approaching them from behind.

All these requirements apply to lone riders and those in family groups.

Dog-Walking

Dog-walkers, please do keep your dog in sight and under proper control at all times, and for everyone’s safety, on a lead if necessary

• No more than four dogs in any one group
• Don't let your dog disturb other visitors or wildlife
• Keep off the greens and tees on the golf course and do not let your dog cause any
  damage.
• Pick up after your dog and dispose of the bag responsibly in one of the dog waste bins, or take it home for disposal

The “Dogs on Lead” area, or the “Skylark Zone”, restrictions on The Plain have been in place since 1st March so we can encourage and protect our ground-nesting birds, such as Skylarks and Meadow Pipits.  Please look out for the notices and keep your dogs on lead in this area and keep to the grass pathways.  Many birds also nest in areas of bramble and gorse so do be careful in these areas too.

The “Dogs out of Ponds” restriction comes into place on 1st April, and most of our ponds will be dog-free zones in order to protect our wildfowl as we approach breeding season.  Around Queensmere, you will also need to keep your dog on a lead. This is as much for their protection as it is to protect our resident swans – during breeding season they will attack a dog without a second thought.

Thank you for your continued support during such a difficult time. Please take care and stay safe.