Beverley and Holderness MP Graham Stuart has convened a meeting of 15 cyclists to discuss the need for repairs to the A1035 cycle path at Leven.
After listening to concerns raised by several local cyclists, Mr Stuart arranged the meeting to address the safety issues and explore possible solutions. He was joined by representatives from East Riding Council’s Streetscene Services Team to discuss practical steps that could be taken.
During the visit, particular attention was given to the 0.9-mile stretch between White Cross Monk Dyke and the Nags Head pub. This section has become a concern to some cyclists because of overgrowing verges and bushes that have narrowed the path to around two-thirds of its original width.
The pathway, which runs alongside the busy A1035 from Beverley to the White Cross roundabout, was constructed in 2014 following a successful bid by East Riding Council to secure funding for an active travel and safe route. The 2m footway and cycleway is a key feature highlighted in the council’s local transport plan.
One potential solution included the purchase of a specialist verge-cutting machine, which could remove any encroachment quickly and at reasonable cost.
The council is reviewing potential funding opportunities, and Mr Stuart has written to the authority to ask for a timeline for when it expects to receive this and hopefully carry out the necessary work.
Mr Stuart said: “As a keen cyclist myself, I know the importance of safe and useable cycle paths to get around our area and stay fit. That’s why I convened this meeting of 15 concerned cyclists and representatives from the council to discuss how to fix the safety concerns raised by local people who use the A1035 cycle path at Leven.
“I am pleased that the council is exploring funding opportunities for the specialist verge-cutting machine, and I will continue to work closely with them to resolve this issue as soon as possible.”
An area engineer at East Riding Council said: “The safety of cyclists and pedestrians is our top priority.
“We were pleased to meet with Graham and the local cycling community to explore a range of solutions. The discussion was very constructive, and I am hopeful that we will see enhancements to the pathway soon.”