The UK’s biggest cycling race may be arriving in West Bridgford in just under a month’s time but cycling in the local area just went up a gear itself thanks to the opening of a new cycle path on Regatta Way.
The opening is a boost for cycle safety as the new route, designed and constructed by Via East Midlands, links the A6011 Radcliffe Road to Adbolton Lane, allowing cyclists to be better connected to facilities at Holme Pierrepont Country Park as well as other cycle routes in the wider area.
The forward-thinking design gives cyclists a dedicated two-way path which is fully segregated from both traffic and pedestrians along its length.
It is also hoped that the opening will go hand-in-hand with the Tour of Britain arriving in Nottinghamshire on 8 September in encouraging people of all ages to get out on their bikes.
Nottinghamshire County Council received funding from the Government’s Active Travel Fund to complete the scheme, which has upgraded the old path previously shared by pedestrians and cyclists.
Via began works on the scheme in January this year following two rounds of consultation with local people who supported the new scheme.
Now the scheme has been completed in time for summer, Via and the county council have joined forces with the Bikeability Trust to offer dedicated family cycle training sessions for free to Nottinghamshire residents. These accompanied rides are designed to help families enjoy cycling safely and confidently, allowing them to make the most of leisure cycling in the county.
Places for the training are limited and offered on a first-come first-served basis. Register your interest by email cyclesafety@viaem.co.uk or calling 0115 9774373.
Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The opening of this new route on Regatta Way is a big step forwards for cycle safety in the local area.
“We work closely with Via East Midlands to deliver cycle safety schemes including the Bikeability programme, and we are pleased that this project will deliver a safe route for people of all ages and cycling abilities to enjoy on their bikes.
“With the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham bringing cycling onto our TV screens and the Tour of Britain coming to Nottinghamshire next month, there’s never been more cycling inspiration and so we’re hoping that the new route will be well used by seasoned cyclists and those new to it alike.
“There are so many benefits to walking and cycling, including cleaner air and less congested roads and I am pleased that there was so much local support for this scheme which will bring numerous benefits to the area.
“Local people will also be pleased to know that resurfacing works have taken place on Regatta Way to coincide with the opening of the new cycle route.
“A whole street approach is a key part of how we’re aiming for success following the recommendations of our Highways Review Panel, and so while traffic management was in place for the cycle lane construction, we took the opportunity to minimise disruption to motorists at a later date and complete surfacing works at the same time.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing people using the new path and hope that it provides a safe route for all in years to come.”
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