We’ve received a further update regarding the new cycle routes being constructed on the Isle of Sheppey:
Works are continuing to press on since construction commenced with the links to schools in July 2010. Whilst the weather has delayed recent progress, every effort is being made to complete the routes to schedule and with minimal disturbance.
The Sheerness Way is now being built along the Queenborough Lines (Canal Bank). Construction here started in November 2010 after planning permission for this section was granted by the County Planning Authority.
Work began towards the Barton’s Point Coastal Park end of the Queenborough Lines in November and over the next 4 – 5 months construction will progress towards Edenbridge Drive and Linden Drive. Part of this project is to construct a toucan crossing on Halfway Road, which began on 31st January.
Initially work progressed well including clearing out an important drainage ditch and laying some of the new track. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, ground conditions have deteriorated and work has been delayed.
Access to the Public Right of Way on top of the embankment is still possible from both Seager Road and Nursery Close. However for safety reasons, access to the lower section is currently restricted.
We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused at this time. Disturbed ground on either side(s) of the new cycle track will be fully reinstated after construction works, through levelling and then seeding with grass.
Work on the second route at Leysdown-on-Sea; the Isle of Harty Trail has run smoothly with only signage works to complete.
The implementation of these 2 cycle routes is part of a wider regeneration scheme on the Isle of Sheppey funded by Kent County Council and Sustrans.
The Sheerness Way will go the whole way around Sheerness linking Barton’s Point, the Queenborough Lines, the town and seafront. It will provide a safe and interesting route for walkers, cyclists and those in buggies and wheelchairs. It will improve accessibility around the town connecting up schools, local businesses, the railway station and leisure centre in a sustainable manner and increase areas for exercise.
The Isle of Harty Trail offers a different wildlife and heritage experience. This circular route uses quiet paths and routes on Harty connecting up the Swale National Nature Reserve, RSPB Raptor Viewing Point and Muswell Manor, (the birthplace of British aviation) and the Harty Ferry Inn.
The timescale for completing both cycle routes is early summer 2011 with a launch in June.
The aim of these cycle routes (which had overwhelming local support during consultation last year) is to improve Sheppey for both residents and visitors.
For more information please contact:
Sharon Bayne
Principal Regeneration and Projects Officer
Regeneration & Economy Division
Chief Executive’s Department, KCC
2nd Floor, Invicta House, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1XX
Spokes are pleased to see that improved cattle grids are now being installed on the new Kingfisher Way cycle route between Canterbury and Chartham. This follows Spokes complaining to both Kent Highway Services and Canterbury City Council about the previous “pointed” cattle grids, which could easily cause damage to bicycles.
Spokes are pleased to learn of a new cycle route that’s proposed across Kingsnorth Meadows on the southern edge of Ashford.