At this year’s LOSRA AGM, the possibility of seeking a pedestrian and cycle river crossing between Sunbury and Elmbridge in order to access the Thames Path, maybe using the weir infrastructure,if any negative implications for residents could be satisfactorily addressed, was discussed and received broad support. A survey we have conducted since then also indicates that it is something which a majority of Sunbury residents would welcome, and a considerable number would use.
We asked a question at the Surrey County Council Area Committee on 30th September to ascertain if they would approve such a scheme in principle. While they were unable to “approve” the concept, they said they would welcome new infrastructure that helped meet their transport objectives, which included encouraging more walking and cycling. A bridge could form part of a cycling action plan to be developed in the future. They said that a feasibility study would be needed to establish whether the benefits justified the likely cost and outweighed any negative impacts.
We have since discussed the implications of a feasibility study with Surrey’s Area Highways Manager, who indicated that this might cost between £5,000 and £10,000. The LOSRA Committee has subsequently approved in principle the possibility of contributing to the cost of a study, once we have more details. In addition, a local resident, who is a civil engineer with a specific knowledge of bridge technology, has done an initial outline study of options and costs, which may inform the debate as the project moves forward.
At the same time the Surrey Cycling Strategy is currently under consultation, and LOSRA has made a submission to that which, among other comments, will naturally highlight the potential value of improved access to the Thames Path.
As well as opposing projects that we don’t like, LOSRA also likes to take a pro-active stance in pursuing objectives which we think will enhance the quality of life in the area, and this is one of them. To view the LOSRA response to the SCC Cycling Strategy consultation document, click here
