An off-road 2.5km cycling path on Shoebury’s Bournes Green Chase and North Shoebury Road will close a “key gap” in cycling routes, Southend Council said ahead of a discussion on infrastructure upgrades next week.
The project is due to begin towards the end of this month and is expected to be ready for use by summer next year.
The council says it will help realise its vision of a better-connected and safer Southend for cyclists.
As well as the new route to connect eastern parts of the city, a consultation is set to be discussed to expand the city’s cycling and walking network with new potential routes to be explored with a citizens panel.
Gap – Southend Council say the new route will connect the eastern part of the city (Image: Google)
Daniel Cowan, Labour leader of Southend Council, said: “These proposals are part of our wider vision to make Southend safer, better connected, and more sustainable.
“The planned off-road route on Bournes Green Chase would close a key gap in the network and improve safety on a busy stretch of road.”
Renovations to improve the safety of the Seafront Cycle Track along Western Esplanade, will also be discussed, with concerns raised over a potential safety issue over bus passengers alighting onto the path.
The consultation on new infrastructure proposals set to launch next year will be a live plan with input from participants used to inform future works, funding bids and to communicate with developers to ensure any planning applications meet with its vision for the city.
“Alongside this, we are looking at ways to enhance the seafront cycle track and address safety concerns,” the council leader added.
“In January, residents will have the chance to shape the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan, which aims to deliver healthier travel choices, better connectivity and support our environmental goals.”
The report follows repairs already undertaken in April this year on the cycle path on Eastern Esplanade to resurface the track, with fresh lines drawn to ensure the track remains distinct for the footpath as part of the council’s commitment to maintaining and expanding the network.