Dover is joining the long list of UK towns creating a better network of routes for pedestrians and cyclists by joining forces with sustainable transport charity - Sustrans. This is part of a UK-wide initiative funded by the Big Lottery Fund to improve local networks so more everyday local journeys can be made by foot or by bike.
In Dover, whilst millions of people pass through the busy port every day, few of them head for the local town centre and likewise many local people are cut off from the sea by the volume of port traffic and a busy local one way road system. The scheme will open up the River Dour for pedestrians and cyclists with a high quality urban promenade which would not only be a good local route but become a popular spine for travel within the town.
Simon Pratt, Sustrans Regional Director, said, "I am delighted that Dover has been accepted onto the Connect2 programme and look forward to seeing the start of construction work in the next few months. This route will be a real asset for the town and will encourage more people to walk and cycle."
The River Dour Route is part of the wider regeneration programme for the town being coordinated by the Dover Pride Regeneration Partnership. Design and the building of the route is being done by Kent Highway Services.
Sustrans and Kent County Council have signed a Memorandum of Understanding - an agreement which secures the £450,000 lottery money from Sustrans for this £900,000 project. This will then be match-funded by Kent County Council. This paperwork cements the commitment to the project with a view to site clearance and ecological mitigation starting straight away and construction following in the summer.
Chairman of Dover Pride, Kevin Lynes, said, "The River Dour running through Dover has a special place in the town's affections. This walking and cycling project offers local people and visitors an exciting opportunity to discover even more of the river's attractions."
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/
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