The Bicycling Advocacy Group has expressed concern following the installation of new signage prohibiting cycling on the Sliema promenade, even at slow speed.

It said Sliema Local Council had been very keen to encourage cycling as a form of transport but it may have been forced to change the signage to comply with the law.

The original signage allowing cyclists to proceed slowly in what the group said was a good compromise that sought to protect both cyclists and pedestrians.

"The new signage protects pedestrians, but it also pushes cyclists, particularly the most vulnerable, slower and less experienced ones onto the car cariageway proper.

"While the faster and more experienced riders may be happy on the road and are unlikely to hold up traffic, the group feels that there should also be an off road option that includes older riders, family groups and cyclists with children or slower less confident riders," it said.

The group renewed its calls for a balance between the interests of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.