Work is underway to improve accessibility on a traffic-free section of National Cycle Network Route 7 - which makes up the popular C2C route. As part of the work, Sustrans and Sunderland City Council will be removing or redesigning physical barriers on the path to improve access for all legitimate users.
This stretch of the Network is part of the popular C2C challenge ride which is completed by an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people per year. Credit: Danny Morris
Making it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle
Work has begun on a one-mile section of the Network (Route 7) which forms part of the C2C or Sea to Sea challenge route.
The project, funded by National Highways aims to encourage more people to travel sustainably by providing a smooth, wide and dry route that can be used all year round.
Along with making the path accessible to everyone including people who use wheelchairs, adapted cycles and horse riders too.
The accessibility improvements, on the traffic-free section between Hylton Bridge and Barmston Lane, Washington, includes:
- widening the path from 1-2 metres wide to between 2.5 and 3.5 metres
- redesigning and removing physical barriers, also known as access controls
- cutting back vegetation either side of the path
- replacing the current dust and stone surface with a more solid surface (material to be confirmed)
- raising the path to prevent flooding.
The work to raise the path is set to prevent flooding. Credit: Josh Morland
A popular path for leisure and commuting
As well as being part of the popular C2C challenge ride which is completed by an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people per year, the path is also well used by commuters travelling to many of the large employers in the area.
Route closures during the work
The work is expected to take around three months to complete (subject to delays).
While every effort has been made to minimise disruption, due to the nature of the works, closures and diversions will be in place while construction work is carried out.
We have worked to design the best diversions possible, however, we are aware that they are not suitable for all users and understand that there will be some disruption to journeys.
We encourage users to plan their journeys accordingly.
If you have any comments, queries or concerns about the project, you can get in touch with us: englandnorth@sustrans.org.uk
Please check back here for more details on diversion routes.
Find out more about the different types of barriers on the Network
Barriers make access to safe active travel routes unequal.
They prevent legitimate users from walking, wheeling or cycling along the National Cycle Network.
Barriers disproportionally impact people who use mobility aids or non-standard cycles
