New walking and cycle path for Oswestry

Work starts on site at Harlech Road, Oswestry on Monday 26 March 2012 to complete a missing link in the local walking and cycle network.

A path was provided linking Ascot Close and Ascot Road with Henley Drive when the estate was built.  However, this wasn’t completed through a hedge to Harlech Road by the developer.

This work will now complete the path and improve access for local people by making it more convenient to walk, use a bicycle, push a pram or wheelchair.  A new pedestrian dropped crossing point will also be provided on Harlech Road next to the new path, to make using it even easier.

This work is expected to be completed within a week, and Shropshire Council and the contractors will minimise disruption wherever possible.

Martin Bennett, Shropshire Councillor for Oswestry East, said:

“I am pleased that this ‘missing link’ will finally be fixed.  I could never understand why there seemed to be a well-lit, well surfaced footpath, which went nowhere.  I have had lots of meetings over a very long time to press the case for this, and at last we are getting some action.  I just ask everyone to be patient until the work is finished.”

Councillor Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for transport planning, said:

“This is a great scheme which will greatly improve access for local people on foot or using their bikes.”

This project is being funded by the Shropshire Local Sustainable Transport Fund.  On 5 July 2011 the Department for Transport announced that it will award Shropshire Council £4.99 million between 2011 and 2015 to spend on a wide range of sustainable transport measures which meet the objectives of supporting and boosting the local economy and cutting carbon emissions.

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