Marston Meadows Cycle path near Linacre College to be resurfaced
A popular Oxford cycle route which is used by thousands of cyclists each week is to be rejuvenated over the course of one week in September
The Marston Meadows cycle path that runs down the side of Linacre College from South Parks Road to the bridge into the meadows will be resurfaced thanks to a scheme funded by the university and the Growth Deal.
The resurfacing will take place in the week starting 3 September, and the path will be completely closed on 6 and 7 September. There will be alternative routes for cyclists during this short closure period.
Half of the funding for the work is coming from the University’s Green Travel Fund, in anticipation of the benefits it will bring to University staff and students, and in particular to those working and studying in the Science Area. The rest of the funding is allocated from the Growth Deal agreed between the city and county councils and Government to ensure that the necessary transport infrastructure is in place to enable excellent access from new homes to jobs and services.
Dr David Prout, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Planning and Resources at the University of Oxford said: “This is a key cycle route into the University Science Area used by many staff and students. Around a third of staff cycle to work and this is just one example of how the University is supporting our partners in the County and City Councils to improve facilities for the University community to travel sustainably and safely.”
County Councillor Yvonne Constance, Oxfordshire County Council Cabinet member for Environment, said: “The finished work will make this important route safer and more pleasant to use, replacing the current rutted, uneven surface with a new one that is smooth, hard-wearing and designed to perform well in all weathers. Of course there will be some inconvenience while it’s done, but it will be more than worth it.”
Councillor Louise Upton, Board Member for Healthy Oxford said: “The Marston Meadows cycle path is a very well used cycle route - the equivalent of a motorway for Oxford cyclists. I am really looking forward to seeing the completed resurfacing. I cycle it almost every day and it has been getting increasingly bumpy.
“I am delighted that the City and County councils, and Oxford University, will be working together on this through part-funding from the Oxfordshire Housing and Growth Deal, and that Oxford Direct Services will be carrying out the resurfacing work.
“This work will make it a much more comfortable journey for the hundreds of people on bikes and on foot who use this popular route across the city, and it will ensure that Oxford continues to be a cycling city.”
The resurfacing is being undertaken by Oxford Direct Services.