Work begins on cycle scheme despite opposition

Supporters of the scheme in Bedlington say it will reduce the number of vehicles on the roads

Construction work has begun on a scheme to improve cycle lanes and pedestrian routes in a town, despite hundreds of people signing a petition against it.

Northumberland County Council is spending £14.7m on two major "active travel" projects in the county, including one in Bedlington.

West Bedlington town councillor Adam Hogg described the scheme as "a waste of taxpayers' money" and said there was "so much else that Bedlington needs more".

But the local authority said the money was ringfenced for active travel schemes and could not be used for other projects.

The active travel route will connect with Bedlington Station on the new Northumberland Line

The money, which came from the previous Conservative government's Levelling Up Fund, will be spent on a 4.3-mile (7km) active travel route for both pedestrians and bikes from West Bedlington to East Sleekburn, with routes to schools and businesses.

A separate scheme will link Hexham train station and Corbridge.

Work began on the Bedlington scheme on Monday, despite many residents objecting.

"We had more than 1,000 people sign a petition against it, either online or a paper version," Hogg said.

"It's just the scale of it, several metres wide in some places, it won't look right in a small town."

Some people in Bedlington were concerned about the width of the new cycle routes and the loss of grass verges

Labour county councillor for Sleekburn Alex Wallace said he "understands people who believe £9m could be spent better elsewhere," but supports the scheme.

"We need to give people alternatives to driving and this route connects with the new Bedlington Station," he said.

Deputy leader of Northumberland County Council Richard Wearmouth said added: "It’s great that we’re now getting spades in the ground.

"Both will have a really positive impact."

The schemes will be developed in phases with entire routes expected to open in early 2027.