A new initiative to enhance cycling and walking routes between Spalding and Pinchbeck has garnered support from local councillors, as reported by Lincolnshire Live. The Lincolnshire County Council’s planning and regulation committee has recommended the development of a segregated cycleway and footpath scheme along Pinchbeck Road, aiming to encourage more residents to swap their cars for bicycles.
The proposed improvements will stretch from Enterprise Way to the junction with Forge Close. This project is part of a broader effort to promote active travel in the region, with the county council receiving £1.8 million in funding from Active Travel England during the 2021/22 financial year.
Councillor Martin Hill, representing the Folkingham Rural area, expressed his support for the initiative. He highlighted the potential benefits for both the community’s health and traffic congestion, stating, "Any encouragement would not only be good for the fitness of those people, but will also remove traffic from a congestion part of the town." Hill acknowledged that while a western bypass for Spalding may be a long-term goal, this scheme could provide immediate benefits.
However, the proposal has not been without its critics. During discussions, it was noted that 14 objections had been raised, primarily concerning safety issues and the possibility of conflict between cyclists and other road users. In response, county council officials assured that the footpaths would be a minimum of 1.5 metres wide and would be resurfaced to enhance accessibility.
Additionally, measures will be taken to ensure that pedestrians and mobility scooter users are physically separated from cyclists. This includes the use of colour surfacing and tactile paving at junctions to assist visually impaired individuals and improve overall safety.
Councillor Gary Taylor, representing Spalding South, acknowledged the concerns from residents but emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of responsible cycling and driving. He stated, "There’s a role for both to play here – safer cycling and safer drivers." Taylor reassured the public that their feedback would be taken into account as the project moves forward.
The executive member for highways and transport will make a final decision on the scheme in the near future, paving the way for improvements that could transform how residents travel between Spalding and Pinchbeck.
As this project develops, it raises important questions about the future of transportation in our community. How do you feel about cycling in Lincolnshire? Would you consider swapping your car for a bike more often if safer routes were available?