County council to go back to the drawing board over plans for path after feedback from public
A scheme to encourage more walking and cycling in Midhurst will be reviewed following feedback from stakeholders and residents.
The Midhurst Greenway plan would see the Jubilee Path in the town widened to allow wheelchair users and cyclists to share the path with pedestrians.
West Sussex County Council exhibited plans for phase one of the Midhurst Greenway at The Grange in Midhurst on February 4 and residents were able to comment on the proposals online or in person at Midhurst Library during the following week.
Feedback was received from more than 100 individuals and stakeholder representatives and, while the principle of making active travel improvements was well supported, there were objections to some aspects of the current proposals.
Key concerns included the proposed width of the Jubilee Path section, routing cyclists around the north side of the pond and replacing the existing bridge with a larger structure, and the proposed choice of surfacing material.
Midhurst county councillor Kate O’Kelly, said: “I am delighted that the scheme has had thorough scrutiny from the community.
“The team at West Sussex have listened to everyone and are going to revise the scheme.
“I am hoping that we can find a solution that works for everyone, if we can get some traffic calming and a reduced speed limit in South Street and the Old Town as part of the scheme that would be a really significant improvement.
“The project will be delayed but it is important that the community is listened to and we get the right result for now and future generations of residents and visitors.”
A county council spokesman said: “We are grateful to everyone who took the time to visit the exhibition and share their thoughts on the proposals with us.
“We have carefully considered residents’ responses along with those of key stakeholders, including Chichester District Council, which owns and maintains the Jubilee Path.
“In light of the issues raised, phase one of the Midhurst Greenway scheme will not progress to construction during the financial year 2022/23.
“Instead, our design consultants will consider the scope to route cyclists south of the pond.
“Our designers will also investigate options for potential speed management measures in South Street, which would make it safer for cyclists travelling between South Pond and The Wharf, and safer for pedestrians crossing this busy road.”
The feedback indicated support for the proposed Toucan crossing on A286 New Road, which would provide a pedestrian and cycle link between Mead Way and the Jubilee Path.
What do you think? Email ws.letters@jpimedia.co.uk or write to the address on page 8.