Next phase in walking and cycling route scheme to begin

The next phase of a major scheme to create a walking and cycling route between West Park and the town centre is set to begin.

Work to redevelop Outram Street, a link road between Woodland Road and Duke Street, is set to begin 10 October. This will include the removal of existing planters to create a route for cyclists and improving some areas of the carriageway.

The changes to Outram Street follow the completion of the phase 1 redevelopment of Woodland Road to create dedicated cycle lanes and improved pedestrian access.

Once the work to Outram Street is complete, the next phase of the scheme is the redevelopment of Duke Street. This work is not programmed to begin until January 2023, after the busy Christmas period.

These projects are part of a wider £1.7m scheme, funded by the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority, to create a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists from West Park to the town centre.

Currently the cycle route between West Park and the town is a signposted but indirect route along residential streets in the Denes – the work being carried out aims to create a direct and dedicated route for cyclists and pedestrians that keeps them separate from vehicles as much as possible.

Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “Now that the first phase of the works to Woodland Road is complete, we can continue with the next phase of this ambitious scheme to create a dedicated cycling route linking up the town centre with the west side of town.

“My thanks go to everyone  - local residents, pedestrians, cyclists and drivers – for their patience during the Woodland Road works. As we move to Outram Street we’ll work hard to liaise with residents and business owners in those areas to keep disruption to a minimum.

“The project is about creating a cycling and walking route but it will have knock on benefits of better access for all and a better street-scape.”

Residents in and around Outram Street have received letters about the forthcoming works and the arrangements. Further meetings will be held with residents and business owners in Duke Street before any work begins in that area in the New Year.