‘LONG overdue improvement’ has begun to make an active travel route near Didcot safer and more enjoyable for cyclists and pedestrians.

Last week, improvements began on an 800 metre stretch of path, heading west from High Street in Long Wittenham. The path will be closed throughout January, with a signed diversion in place.

This is a popular route, a public bridleway that forms part of long distance National Cycle Network route 5 between Reading and Holyhead. It serves as a vital active travel link to Didcot.

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Upgrades will provide more space and a suitable surface. The works will also help to improve the existing drainage issues.

The route is being resurfaced and improved through walking and cycling charity Sustrans’ Paths for Everyone programme.

Gordon Rogers, Chairman of Long Wittenham parish council said: “It's a long overdue improvement and we look forward to its completition.”

“Works started on January 10, and they will take four weeks. But if the weather remains good it could be finished in about three weeks. I think they are making good progress.”

Sarah Leeming, from Sustrans said: “Making the much needed improvements to this route will enable more people to choose active travel, whether it be for a local everyday journey or as the first stage of an onward sustainable commute via Didcot.

“It’s brilliant to see this project getting underway. It will bring us one step closer to achieving a National Cycle Network that’s safer and more enjoyable for everyone who wants to use it.”

The project is being delivered as part of Sustrans’ Paths for Everyone programme, funded by the Department for Transport. As well as input from Long Wittenham Parish Council, The British Horse Society and Oxfordshire County Council.

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