Views sought on cycle route plans

PLANS for five new routes to extend and improve Eastbourne’s cycling network are out for public consultation.

The proposals, designed to encourage more sustainable travel, include sections that will take cyclists from Stone Cross to the seafront, joining up the existing seafront cycle route with the Horsey Way route.

Cllr Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment, said: “As well as improving people’s health and wellbeing, cycling helps to protect the environment and improve air quality.

“These proposals would significantly improve the cycling network around Eastbourne, putting in place infrastructure to support people to change habits and find a more active and healthy way to travel.

“The feedback we receive will help officers finalise these plans and ensure that whatever we put in place provides the greatest benefit to the community.”

The proposed routes include:

  • Horsey Way phase 1b – the final section of the Horsey Way route which will run from Eastbourne Railway Station to Ringwood Road
  • Eastbourne Town Centre – allowing cyclists to travel in either direction from Eastbourne railway station, via the Devonshire Quarter, to the seafront
  • Stone Cross to seafront– a shared route allowing cyclists to travel in either direction from Stone Cross, via Langney, towards the seafront
  • Willingdon Drove – a shared route connecting Sevenoaks Road and Kingfisher Drive to the Langney Shopping Centre
  • Langney Rise – a shared route which runs along the western side of Langney Rise from the shopping centre to Langney roundabout, connecting with the existing Horsey Way cycle route

Additions to the network were identified through the county council’s draft Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan and the Eastbourne Cycling Strategy, jointly developed with Eastbourne Borough Council.

Funding has already been secured, should the proposals be approved, through the county council’s capital programme and money from the Local Growth Fund via the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

The consultation runs until Friday, September 24 and the public can take part by visiting eastsussex.gov.uk/eastbournecycleroutes.