Your comments...
Will the cycle lane result in trees and grass verges being removed, if so, this will have an adverse effect on the environment?
How many trees along the route will be affected the new cycleway and are there any plans to offset any loss?
Is there any plan to increase the amount of green space along the route? Have planters for additional greenery been considered?
Our response...
The scheme has been designed to limit the loss of hedgerows and trees wherever we can, with the majority of the scheme making use of existing hardstanding and grass verges. Where the root protection zones of trees are potentially impacted, the design is being shaped to make sure the tree remains healthy, and roots are not damaged.
We aim to complete compensatory works by planting to at least the same or double the number of trees along the route while moving some of the younger trees to different sites, in line with the council's targets to improve biodiversity. Regrettably, a small number of trees in the verge will have to be removed, but this this is a necessary measure to support our vital cycling and walking improvements which will support carbon reductions and improve public health in the long term. The design put forward maintains the maximum possible number of trees whilst still providing the cycleway.
