South Gloucestershire cycle path plan could be approved

Proposals for the design of the cycle path in Alveston Hill Greenway

Plans for a “missing link” cycle path between a town and a village in South Gloucestershire could be approved this wek.

The path would run through fields between Alveston and Thornbury and provide a safer route.

The current route for walkers and cyclists runs along a steep, fast and busy road.

Councillors on the development management committee will vote on whether to grant permission for the plans on 4 July.

How Alveston Hill currently looks

The plan proposed by South Gloucestershire Council, has sparked concerns about an increase in unsociable behaviour, along with complaints that there was no provision for horses.

The route forms part of a wider project linking Alveston and Thornbury to the A38.

One member of the public questioned: “Why are you planning this for walkers and cyclists but leaving out horse riders?"

"Whatever happened to equality, equal access to all?” they added.

Anti-social behaviour

Experts from the council and Avon and Somerset Police have also objected to the plans, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The public rights of way officer at the council also suggested no provision was made on the cycle path for horse riders.

The police added that the proposal was likely to encourage more people to walk and cycle along the route, which could increase the risk of crime.

In planning documents, Kevin Wilkinson, a designing out crime officer, added: “The application seeks to provide three rest areas."

He said: "The applicant should be mindful that seating is one of the main drivers for anti-social behaviour.”

'Steep gradient'

The Bristol Cycling Campaign was supporting the plans, highlighting the current danger of riding on the busy road in the dark.

Several people living nearby also wrote to the council, with some supporting the plans and others objecting.

Another member of the public said only a brave cyclist attempted the climb due to its steep gradient and constant traffic.

If planning permission is approved, construction is expected to start in spring next year.