Spokes Blog

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 recently received the following update regarding the Isle of Sheppey cycle routes:

On 26^th July 2010 construction of a brand new 9km circular cycle route around Sheerness started (see map).

An initial six week work program began with links from St Edwards School, Rose Street School & Seashells Childrens’ Centre, Richmond Primary School, West Minster Primary School and the Isle of Sheppey Academy (Sheerness campus) to the main circuit around Sheerness.

Planning permission was granted in October 2010, work will soon begin to construct the cycle path along Queenborough Lines (known locally as the ‘Canal Bank’). This will include building a Toucan crossing at Halfway Road. The finishing touches of line markings and signing will bring the constructions phase to a close in March 2011, with a grand launch later in 2011.

A second circuit route is also being built linking Leysdown-on-Sea to the Isle of Harty, with an additional circular route around Harty (see map). Construction of this 9.5km route is due to commence in the autumn of 2010 and completion due in the following spring with signage and line markings.

These routes will be both functional and recreational routes, benefitting locals and tourists alike. They will not only provide an outlet for exercise and recreation, but will support tourism and local businesses in a sustainable manner. The Leysdown-on-Sea route takes in many attractions including Swale National Nature Reserve, the RSPB Capel Fleet RaptorViewing Point, Harty Church, the Ferry Inn and Muswell Manor.  The Sheerness route makes the most of the coastline and heritage attractions such as Queenborough Lines.

The projects also aim to attract new visitors, including families looking for safe cycling.  The routes will provide an opportunity for businesses to use this new product in their marketing and could present new business opportunities, for example bike hire.

We’re pleased to hear that good progress is being made and that construction will begin shortly. The route at Sheerness will benefit many schools and residents for their day-to-day journeys. The route linking Leysdown-on-Sea and Harty will provide a great leisure amenity in a highly scenic setting.