Updated: 27th January 2025
After various recent projects on the National Cycle Network in and around Derby, only one location with A-frame barriers remains on the local NCN. There are other restrictions (e.g. sharp bends, pinch points, etc.) but none as restrictive (and impossible for some users) as A-frame barriers.
This location is by the Paddock Pub where the southern end of the Breadsall Greenway meets Mansfield Road (NCN 672).
Removing restrictions in the Paddock area would open up an 18 mile route that is almost all off road and with no very restrictive barriers. This would allow cycling from the northern end of the Breadsall Greenway (Lime Lane) to the end of the Cloud Trail (near to Worthington). The only on road sections are Old Mansfield Road (about 200 metres), Penalton Close (very quiet) and the bridge over the A50 near to Breedon (where the pavement could be used). See here for a map of the route.
Almost all of the original A-frames on the Breadsall Greenway were removed during 2024 by Derbyshire County Council Countryside Service with support from Sustrans. However, the Paddock location falls within the City Council boundary and, hence, wasn’t included in the removal plans.
Subsequently, DCG have been pressing Derby City Council to remove this one remaining barrier location on the NCN within Derby. Councillor Carmel Swan has been very responsive and has asked the relevant Council officers to investigate further.
The latest understanding is that Derby City Council believe that, when the Greenway was built, an agreement was reached between the City and County Councils for the County Council to maintain the greenway (even for the bit within Derby City). Currently DCG is trying to bring the various parties together to reach a common understanding of the responsibilities.
Once this common understanding is reached we’ll be encouraging the responsible body to remove the remaining barriers. Sustrans have some funding from DfT (which was used to remove the original barriers elsewhere in Breadsall) and this MAY be available to help with removal of the barriers at this last location.
Work is also needed at this location to cut back encroaching trees and to also make repairs to the greenway surface.
Readers can assist in making progress by encouraging their elected representatives to address this restriction to wider use of the greenway.