INDEPENDENT Cllr. Neil Johnson has welcomed the latest update from Warrington Borough Council which offers a positive outlook on the prospect of a new walking and cycling route linking Culcheth and Birchwood.
The update from Warrington Borough Council says:”Technical work has been conducted to assess a number of route options for the scheme. This has considered a range of factors for differing route options covering likely costs, timescales for delivery of the route, environmental and ecology considerations, land and access rights, and the quality of route that would be provided.
“Through this work, a preferred option has been identified that would link between the planned motorway service area adjacent to M62 Junction 11, and New Hall Lane in Culcheth. This route would entail upgrading the existing Public Right of Way and seeking to agree access rights for cyclists to use the route, alongside a number of mitigation measures to minimise impacts on land owners and provide betterment where possible. Improvements to walking and cycling facilities through the motorway service area and over the M62 Junction 11 are due to be delivered in a linked scheme by the developer.
“Key land owners along the route have been identified including Biffa Waste Management. The Borough Council will be sending a letter to these landowners to outline the Council’s position and to seek a conversation regarding the proposals. The Council is seeking to agree access rights and provide mitigation measures through a process of negotiation and is keen to engage with stakeholders in a constructive manner.
“Subsequent to engagement of landowners and agreement on key principles, the Council intends to conduct a public consultation on the scheme in Autumn 2025.”
In response, Independent Councillor Neil Johnson says:”I was very pleased to receive this update from the Borough Council. I am a strong advocate of walking and cycling routes. Anything that makes our villages more accessible, more welcoming and reduces the number of cars on the road is to be welcomed.
“I will now be holding conversations with the land owners and Warrington Borough Council, and I will be closely involved as these plans progress.
“I am very happy to speak to any residents who have views on this scheme. Please feel free to contact me, especially if you are a keen cyclist. I will be sure to keep everyone updated in the meantime.”
1 Comment
Sounds like a good move I have only discovered the rights of way in this area, often getting lost behind Ridley Prison where the rights of way styled have been covered in barbed wire. It’s a bit like a mini Lakeland by junction 11 through to Culcheth. Culcheth to Birchwood is a bit more problematic with highways to cross. As a path warden I welcome any right of way extension