A CYCLE path between Eynsham and Botley could be open this time next year, according to a campaign group.

Community group Bike Safe has launched a survey of the land to identify specifically where the lane along the B4044 will go.

The scheme, which will cost an estimated £1.5m, recently won a pledge of funding from Doric – the developers of the West Way shopping centre – and a new government cycling delivery plan could bring more cash.

Chairman Ian Leggett said: “The survey of the land between Eynsham and Botley will enable us to identify where the route will go.

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“If we can get planning permission sorted by the spring there’s no reason why we can’t have this completed and ready to use this time next year.”

The charity believes the 3.1 mile (5km) stretch of 50mph single track carriageway between Eynsham and Dean Court via Farmoor along the B4044 is dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists.

It wants the grass verge alongside it to be made into a separate path.

The Department for Transport’s cycling delivery plan, which is currently under consultation, calls on local authorities to make an ‘expression of interest’ of long-term ambition towards cycling improvements in return for priority access to funding.

Mr Leggett said: “I feel more confident now.

“I think the cycling delivery programme is a really good thing.

“The opportunity is now there for local authorities who to want to do some serious investment in improving cycling and walking.

“We have written to Oxfordshire County Council urging them to submit an expression of interest and we hope they take this great opportunity.”

The Government’s 10-year strategy to improve cycling and walking across England includes the creation of partnerships between the Government and local authorities.

Council cabinet member for transport David Nimmo Smith said: “I would like the county to put in an expression of interest.

“We need the details of the Government’s plan first but if it means funds could come in for cycling improvements then we are up for it.

“One of our officers is going to a meeting next week.”

The community group will receive £80,000 from West Way developers Doric and Mace if the proposed £100m regeneration scheme obtains planning permission next month.

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood last month told the Commons more cycling cash should be made available to community groups and councils.

County council spokesman Dominic Llewellyn-Jones said: “We anticipate making an expression of interest as outlined in the draft document.”


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