Connect2 Hastings to Bexhill Cycle Route Presentation for MoU signing 100209

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Connect2 Hastings to Bexhill Cycle
RoutePresentation for MoU signing10/02/09
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Contents1 - Introduction2 - Project Funding
3 - Memorandum of Understanding 4 - Progress
to Date5 - Outstanding Issues6 - Indicative
Timescales
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1 - Introduction Connect2 Project

• The national Connect2 project was successful in
  bidding for 50 million of Lottery funding
  through the Living Landmarks competition in
  December 2007.
• Connect2 consists of 79 projects across the UK,
  one of which is the Hastings Bexhill Pedestrian
  and Cycle route.
• Each of the 79 projects is designed to allow
  everyday trips (e.g. to work and school) to be
  undertaken on foot or by cycling. Projects
  include new paths, bridges and tunnels.

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1 - Introduction Hastings to Bexhill Route

• The Hastings to Bexhill route forms part of NCN
  Route 2 and completes a vital missing link in the
  network between the two towns.
• The route links two existing traffic free paths
  Galley Hill in Bexhill and Hastings promenade.
• The current NCN route uses the busy A259 which is
  not well suited to cycling.
• Stretching for 2km, the new route will result in
  a traffic free route of over 5km between the
  towns and will encourage both utility and
  recreational cycling.

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1 - Introduction Hastings to Bexhill Route

• The proposed route will be constructed at the
  back of Bulverhythe Beach, providing a very
  attractive route for cyclists and pedestrians.
• The route has been made possible as a result of
  the sea defence works completed by the
  Environment Agency about two years ago which has
  created a wide, stable plateau at the back of the
  beach.

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1 - Introduction Arial Photo
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1 - Introduction Artists Impression
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2 - Project Funding

• Design and construction costs are estimated at
  680,000.
• Funding Package as follows
• Connect2 Lottery Funding 380k
• Sustrans Links to Schools 100k
• ESCC Capital Programme 200k
• Total 680k

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3 - Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

• A non legally binding agreement signed by
  Sustrans and ESCC confirming the route detail and
  conditions for funding.
• Provides a framework for future development of
  the scheme.
• ESCC Signatories
• Rupert Clubb, Director, Transport Environment
• Cllr Matthew Lock, Lead Member for Transport
  Environment
• Sustrans Signatories
• Andy Wistow, Director, Sustrans

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4 - Progress to Date

• Working with the EA and consultants, a Flood Risk
  Assessment (FRA) has been completed. This is a
  requirement of the planning process.
• Internal project management arrangements have
  been confirmed.
• Additional funding secured through Sustrans Links
  to Schools.
• Land owners identified and negotiations to
  acquire land well advanced.
• Initial meetings with stakeholders.

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5 - Outstanding Issues

• Future maintenance issues need to be identified
  and resolved, e.g. shingle clearance after storm
  events.
• Land to be acquired / leased from Network Rail to
  allow route to be re-aligned so flood risk is
  reduced.
• Land negotiations to be completed.
• Preliminary / detailed designs to be completed
  and costings confirmed.
• Stakeholder engagement.
• Planning permission.

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6 - Moving Forward Indicative Timescales

• 2008/09 Commence Land Searches and Negotiations
• Flood Risk Assessment
• Commence Preliminary Design
• Memorandum of Understanding
• 2009/10 Continue Preliminary Design
• Planning Permission
• Continue Land Negotiations / Acquisition
• Public Exhibition
• Commence Detailed Design
• 2010/11 Detailed Design
• Construction (Commence March 2011)