The project to build a riverside multi-user path between Haslams Lane in Darley Abbey to Ford Lane in Allestree has now reached the important milestone of applying for planning permission. This project is being delivered by Highways England as part of their “Designated Funds” support for local community projects across the country after a successful grant application from the Derwent Valley Trust.
Significant objections to the plans are not expected and there is widespread local support but, due to the vagaries of planning procedures, it is important that all those who support the project make their views known to the planning authorities. As the route spans two council areas there are separate planning applications to Derby City and Erewash Borough Councils. For Derby, submit your comments and support by visiting this link and search for 20/01542/FUL
Select “Documents” and then review the “DCC Planning Statement” for a good summary of the project. This document is supported by other detailed surveys which are also available on the site. To submit your comments visit “Comments”. You’ll need to register yourself using an email address and password and can then login and complete a feedback form. Note that only Derby City postcodes are recognised in the postcode lookup but others outside the city can still register and comment by manually entering their address.
Whilst feel free to give detailed comments, the main benefit will be to register your support for the project. This will help show the Planning Committee the widespread support for the proposals and encourage them to quickly pass the planning application.
For Erewash, visit this link and search for 1220/0043.
It is important that you register support on both systems as they won’t pass comments between them and each planning application will be considered separately.
This is an excellent opportunity to provide a high quality cycle route at no direct cost to the local Councils (funds are all from Highways England) and will provide a scenic and safe cycle route from the north into the City avoiding the current accident black spot of Palm Court Island (the A6 / A38 junction). The project also has the support of Sustrans who will realign National Cycle Route 54 from the existing poor route on Alfreton Road and alongside the A61 to use the new traffic free cycleway.
The Derwent Valley Trust are working on proposals to extend the route further north to Duffield and beyond (eventually to Chatsworth!).
The deadline for comments on the planning application is the 24th December so please submit your demonstration of support NOW to help ensure the project progresses.