Downs Cycling loop plans take step forward
LONG-STANDING plans for a cycle path that loops around the Downs have taken a big step forward after the organisers got the go-ahead to submit a planning application.
The 2.3 mile circular route would need new paths and crossing points around the Downs, as well as traffic calming measures on some of the roads that criss-cross the open space.
The proposal for the Downs Loop has come from the group behind the annual Cycle Sunday event on the public common, working with charity Greenways and Cycleroutes.
This week the Downs Committee, which manages the common, gave its blessing for Cycle Sunday to submit a planning application for the loop.
Vicki Cracknell, from Cycle Sunday, said the group intends to prepare and submit a planning application after its public consultation on the plans comes to an end later this month.
The proposed loop would run along Rockleaze and Downleaze,
Circular Road, Ladies Mile and a short section of Stoke Road.
A new zebra crossing would be installed on Stoke Road near the Water Tower, and accessible paths from Stoke Road to the Sea Walls would be created, some along existing tracks worn by years of people walking the same route.
A new path would replace the narrow and uneven one alongside Ladies Mile, and traffic calming measures would be installed on Circular Road.
All the paths would be three metres wide and designed for
wheelchairs, buggies and bikes.
Public feedback so far indicates there is widespread support for the proposals.
More than 600 people have completed a survey on the consultation website so far, the committee heard.
Initial analysis indicates that four in five respondents think the existing paths are not suitable for all users, because they are uneven or narrow or not easy to access.
Around 90 per cent agreed the proposed loop would improve access for children learning to cycle, less confident adults on bikes, and people using wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Some 94 per cent agreed the proposed raised zebra crossing on Stoke Road by the cafe would make it easier to cross.
Consultant Finlay McNab, who is running the consultation, told the committee that the number of respondents was already large enough to be “relatively confident” about some of the findings.
But resident Richard Hensey, who opposes the cycle loop, told the committee: “I’m concerned that too much attention will be given to the cycling lobby survey because that will certainly be biased in their favour.”
Mr Hensey said he did not accept there was “unmet demand” for more cycling routes on the Downs and that they would attract “the wrong type of cyclists”.
Members of the public will be able to comment on the planning application once it is submitted to Bristol City Council.