By Mal Butler
Cycling advocacy group, CycleWight, is claiming a dispute, between IW Council and Island Roads, has delayed projects across the Island.
The group says the dispute involves the PFI contract, and is hindering its efforts to encourage more cyclists to use the Island cycle path network as an alternative to riding on main roads. Among the delays, the group says, is a section of the busy National Cycle Path 23 (NCP23) from Merstone Road to Horringford, which needs resurfacing as the current potholed and broken surface is dangerous and too narrow for cyclists to pass safely. Other delays include the removal of barriers on cycle paths, a list of which was submitted to the IW Council in July 2023; the roll out of the road safety ‘Think Bike’ sign initiative; and reinstating ditches on the Shanklin to Wroxall cycle path to address the continuous surface water problems
A spokesman said: “The IW Council continues to promote the Island as a cycling destination rendering the current situation unacceptable. Cyclists riding on the Island deserve better.
“The dispute is severely hindering CycleWight’s efforts to encourage more cyclists to use the Island cycle path network, as an alternative to riding on main roads.
“The fear of feeling unsafe whilst riding on roads is singularly the biggest reason people are reluctant to commute by bicycle.”
However, speaking on behalf of both organisations, an IW Council spokesman said: “The Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads remain committed to maintaining and improving cycling infrastructure across the Island.
“We take the concerns raised by CycleWight seriously, and would be happy to meet with them to discuss these in more detail. We have ambitious plans to enhance cycling provision, including the development of the Island Green Link, a major new initiative supported by Levelling Up funding.
“A key part of this is the West Wight Greenway — an ambition for a 13-mile route for cyclists and walkers stretching from Freshwater to Newport, largely following existing rights of way. The scheme also includes improvements in Ryde and Newport, such as enhanced cycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the town centres.”
The council says it has recently delivered several major upgrades, including the Ryde interchange project; a 1 1/5km (3/4mile) improved shared route between the Riverside Centre and Mews Lane in Newport; and the resurfacing and elevation of an 80-metre (262 1/2 foot) section between Blackwater Hollow and Birchmore Lane to address flooding issues.
The spokesman added that several other projects were in the pipeline.
Press Release