Norwich: Living Streets row between cyclists and pedestrian

John Peacock, 68, took over as lead of the Norwich branch of Living Streets - then the Pedestrians' Association - in 1997 before it later incorporated issues affecting cycling.

Mr Peacock claims that last week, and with no prior warning, he was contacted by the head office of the national charity and told to "clear his desk" with no prior consultation.

John Peacock, pictured in 2019, over concerns about the placement of a temporary bus stop at the UEA and the safety of people using it - Picture: Sonya Duncan (Image: Sonya Duncan)

However, a Living Streets spokeswoman maintains that John was not dismissed and that their understanding was that he had not been involved with the organisation for five years.

She also stressed that multiple local groups should be able to function side by side and that the body is grateful for John's work, with hopes of resolving his frustration.

Although dismayed with the split, John states he made attempts to hand over to the new generation of Living Streets Norwich to no avail.

Cycle lanes on The Avenues in Norwich - Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

"I have been aware that certain elements within the local cycling fraternity were plotting against me," explained John, who lives in Eaton.

"They have long objected to my raising awareness of the imbalance in planning priorities between cyclists and pedestrians."

John believes the message of the organisation has been lost since changing to Living Streets in 2001 and incorporating issues affecting cyclists.

John Peacock, pictured in 2009, campaigning for Living Streets about the potential loss of a zebra crossing on Heigham Road in Norwich - Picture: Sonya Duncan (Image: Newsquest)

He added: "The two simply do not mix. People did not join the Pedestrians' Association to become advocates for the cycling lobby.

"London Street was the first street in the UK to be pedestrianised, it's something we should be proud of. But I fear that is all gone.

"This is a slap in the face and shows a lack of professionalism.

"This came as a shock after being at the helm for 26 years."

Living Streets was formerly the Pedestrians' Association - Picture: Living Streets (Image: Living Streets)