Wivenhoe Trail faces extended closure

May 18, 2006

The Wivenhoe Trail faces an extended closure - possibly in two locations.

The news is bound to affect the hundreds of cyclists who use the Colchester route daily.

Closure number one is a continuation of the existing diversion from Colne Causeway via Lightship Way (the road in front of B&Q).

Closure number two is expected to be at the Willow Plantation near to the Mill Hotel.

The footpath and permissive cycle route from Colne Causeway pelican crossing to University Quays is shut for health and safety reasons while developers build four-storey flats adjacent to the path.

The route shut approximately 18 months ago and the builder is expected to apply for a six-month extension soon.

Colchester Cycling Campaign asked Alan Bligh of Essex Rights of Way if anything could be done to shorten the closure period, but he doubted this.

He saidthere was a chance of using alternative land but this was mired down in negotiations between the developer and Tesco, the landowner.

CCC pointed to the danger of crossing Lightship Way twice, just to stay on an ostensibly traffic-free trail; we were told that the southern footway of Lightship Way was not yet adopted as highway and cycling on it was, therefore, not an offence. CCC also flagged up the dangerof the loose surface immediately next to University Quays, and Mr Bligh is to look into this on our behalf.

Turning to the Willow Plantation, it appears that a start on housebuilding is imminent.

This stretch of the trail was shut for 18 months in 2003/04 when the developer was arguing its case for planning permission. It claimed the trail was not a public right of way, which Colchester council appeared to agree with, despite evidence of walking and cycling there for at least 25 years.

As part of planning approval, Colchester council persuaded the developer to contribute land for the trail once work is complete. The trail reopened shortly after the developer was successful.

However, with motor vehicle access to the site only available via a weir, which crosses the cycle route, and building likely close to the line of the trail, CCC has been told that it is very probable the route will be closed for 18 months or more.

CCC, together with Alan Morgan of Sustrans, the National Cycle Route charity, are keeping an eye on the issue with the aim of minimising any closure and ensuring a safe diversion.

CCC chairman Will Bramhill said: "We will be pointing out to the council that it is encouraging people to walk and ride as part of their everyday lives.

"Hundreds of people walk and cycle this part of the trail daily, using it for trips to work, school and the shops.

"This closure will rob them of a safe route. Many people who have broken a car habit may be tempted back into the car for trips to and from the Hythe and Wivenhoe. It is all very self-defeating."