The initial stage of the engineering works to build the first of two cycle routes in Verulamium Park has been completed. Construction works to develop the new cycle routes in Verulamium Park began six weeks ago.
Approximately 80 cubic metres of concrete has been used to develop a reinforced concrete slab at the section of the path between Mud Lane and Fighting Cocks Public House. Installation of the edge restraints to various sections of the path is also completed.
The works on the first of the planned paths, which runs from the Fighting Cocks to King Harry Lane, are programmed to continue from now until mid September. Over the next few weeks, engineering and concrete works to the southern section of the north/south cycle path will continue, and the path will be surfaced. Works to install safety fencing, signage, speed restriction measures and bollards will then be completed.
Every effort is being made to ensure the works are done safely and access to the park is maintained, with alternative routes provided where necessary.
Cllr Daniel Chichester-Miles, Portfolio Holder for Environment at St Albans City and District Council, said: “The construction of a cycle path sounds like a simple enough project on the face of it. However, the reality is that this is a major piece of civil engineering work that is being carried out close to a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Not only are we putting in place a new cycle route, but we are also taking the opportunity to rebuild a structurally unsound path. This path was originally built with sandbags and over the years subsidence has developed due to the nature of these construction materials, tree roots growing underneath and rabbit burrows. We are keen to make sure the paths are of a high quality, are in keeping with the park setting, are safe and respect both the needs of cyclists and pedestrians including those with disabilities. We have worked hard to design paths that balance the needs of the various groups.”
The Council is constructing the cycle paths in Verulamium Park following representations from residents over many years, including a petition from the St Albans Cycling Club last summer.
Councillor contact:
Cllr Daniel Chichester-Miles, Portfolio Holder for Environment
St Albans City and District Council
Tel: 01582 766479
Contact for the media:
Claire Wainwright, Principal Communications and Marketing Officer
St Albans City and District Council
Tel: 01727 819572
E-mail: claire.wainwright@stalbans.gov.uk
www.stalbans.gov.uk