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11
Nov 2022
Residents still waiting for letters about Otley Road cycling plans
Some Harrogate residents are still waiting to receive letters about the latest cycle plans for Otley Road and Beech Grove — even though a meeting to discuss the scheme is due to be held today.
North Yorkshire County Council announced on October 19 it would hold "further public engagement on phase two of Otley Road cycle route, its links with Beech Grove and the town centre".
It added "letters to residents in the vicinity of the scheme will be delivered next week".
But some homes have yet to receive them, even though a meet-the-designer event is due to be held at the civic centre today.
Melisa Burnham, highways area manager, said:
Read more:
- Otley Road cycle path could be re-routed with new traffic restrictions
- Fears latest Harrogate cycling plans will create 'murder strip'
Asked how many homes had not received the letter, a council spokeswoman said it "wouldn't know the exact figure". The letters were posted by Royal Mail and the council has reissued them when they were alerted to problems.
Barry Adams, who lives on Otley Road, said hardly anyone he had spoken to was aware of the consultation, which he described as a "sham". He added:
Views on cycling
The public engagement opened last month as part of the latest bid to promote active travel in the town.
The council is asking residents and people who travel in Harrogate to suggest what improvements could be made to the area on and around Oatlands Drive.
It is also consulting on phase two of Otley Road cycle route, its links with Beech Grove and the town centre ahead of construction.
It is hoped the proposed schemes will encourage residents and visitors to opt for walking and cycling and reduce traffic congestion.
Three options for the Otley Road route are being considered. Today's meet the designer event at the civic centre from 4.30pm to 7pm will give stakeholder groups and residents the opportunity to discuss the options.
The results will be considered this month with construction due to begin in summer next year.
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