Agenda Item 7: Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan: Networks & Prioritisation (ANNEX D LCWIP Cycle Network Plan)

I am writing on behalf of Copmanthorpe Parish Council regarding Agenda Item 7 of the upcoming Economy, Place, Access and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting. I would like to express our thanks and welcome the inclusion of the cycling proposals we put forward.

We are particularly pleased to see that the Yorkfield Lane (restricted byway) project, which holds great importance for our village, has been incorporated into the Cycle Network Plan as part of the 'Proposed Local Network'. The connection of this route to the Tadcaster Road cycle network and through the new development off Tadcaster Road is a valuable enhancement that we strongly support.

Additionally, we are very pleased to see the inclusion of the Public Right of Way (PROW) from Copmanthorpe to Bishopthorpe, which is a critical route for residents, reflected as a future local cycle network route in the plan, which will significantly increase the save and direct connectivity between the villages of Copmanthrope and Bishopthorpe/ 

However, I would like to draw attention to the fact that the exact route shown on the map does not follow the current PROW. The existing route runs over the Bishopthorpe Crossing and through fields, whereas the map outlines a path via the presently closed Beckett’s Crossing.

Given that Network Rail has withdrawn its application under the Transport and Works Act Order to close the level crossing to further evaluate viable solutions and City of York Council previous refuse the diversion of the PROW, we would advise caution in the LCWIP plan. It would be premature to include a route outline that currently lacks a designated PROW or a functional and approved crossing point over the railway.

We believe it is important to ensure that future cycle and walking infrastructure is based on practical, accessible, and legal routes, and we hope this matter will be addressed before any final decisions are made.

Thank you for considering our representation.

Yours sincerely,

Lars Kramm

Vice Chair

Copmanthorpe Parish Council