Cycle path can be built over ancient commons, inspector declares
AN INSPECTOR has ruled that a new cycle path can be built over ancient commons at Beverley bringing a four-and-a-half year saga to a conclusion.
Residents, who wanted the path to protect youngsters cycling from Walkington to school in the town, had clashed with campaigners, who felt the land being offered in exchange was already part of the common.
But Inspector Michael Lowe, who chaired a recent planning inquiry, concluded that “the deregistration and exchange proposal would not significantly adversely affect the interests of any person having rights in relation to the release of land” and that “the proposal would have substantial benefits to the neighbourhood”.
East Riding Council said it would now register the area of 4,000 square metres, formerly known as Fishwick Mill, which is not currently protected, as common land in exchange for an area of 710 square metres, adjacent to the current path, which will be widened to accommodate cyclists as well as pedestrians.
Overall the area of common will be increased, not decreased.
The council wanted to improve the route, which is used by children, some as young as 11, and is part of the National Cycle Network. It is also a popular commuter route between Walkington, Broadgates and Beverley.
Coun Andy Burton said the authority was a keen advocate of cycling. The council aims to start work on site in early 2016, with the scheme expected to cost around £200,000.