Protest planned over cycle route delay

The decision to allow cyclists to use the path through the park is still in consultation, but a decision was expected in Spring 2016.

Tim Godwin, a spokesperson for HUB, said: “We think a shared route through the park is vital as it is the first component for the network of safe routes that the town desperately needs.

“Along with the town centre link, the park route can be seen as the keystone of the whole network.”

The cycling group are stepping up the pressure on the council because they fear for the safety of cyclists.

A spokesperson for East Sussex County Council said: “We are working in partnership with Hastings Borough Council to develop proposals for a shared cycle and pedestrian route through Alexandra Park.

“We have recently completed surveys to monitor use of the park by pedestrians and cyclists, are currently considering the results of these surveys and will be meeting with the borough council later this month to gauge its views on the acceptability of the proposals.

“As the park has Grade II status, the proposals will need to be approved by Historic England before being presented to the county council lead member for transport and environment to recommend officers draw up detailed designs and implement the scheme.

“We share residents’ desire for this process to be completed as soon as possible, but it’s important we take the time to ensure we do this properly and that any scheme we go ahead with is the right one for the park and the people who use it.”

The group has planned a protest on Sunday, November 27. You can find out more at www.facebook.com/hastingsurbanbikes.

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