About the Scheme
The proposed scheme (hybrid cycleway) runs between Anglia Ruskin University at Rectory Lane and Victoria Road. The existing on-road facility is advisory-only, is of insufficient width and can often be blocked by parked vehicles in places. The proposal is to provide one- way, raised, coloured hybrid cycle tracks along both sides of New Street for the majority of the length between Rectory Lane and Victoria Road with short sections of improved advisory where necessary.
The works
A raised hybrid cycle track is a purpose-built track created next to the footway at a level that is above the carriageway but below the footway. This provides greater definition for cyclists and increases safety, reducing conflict with both pedestrians and vehicles. It will have red surfacing to highlight the definition between the different uses and shaped kerbing to allow cyclists joining from side roads and vehicles to cross over and access private properties.
Southbound cyclists will use a raised hybrid cycle track whereas northbound cyclists will use a combination of raised hybrid, segregated footway / cycleway and advisory at points due to the interaction with existing properties and parking outside the shops. This will also be red in colour.
A developer funded parallel crossing will be installed just to the north of the Network Rail bridge outside the Marconi Development providing an east – west link between the River Chelmer and the railway station via Brook Street and the Marconi Housing Development / Mill Yard.
The current parking provision outside the shops between Marconi Road and Bishop Road will be retained, lighting and signage along the road upgraded and the signalised junction at Victoria Road amended to provide improved provision for cyclists on the approach to the junction.
The scheme links with an existing route through the university to the north and access into the City Centre via New Street and Tindal Square to the south.
This proposed work is part of the £15 million Chelmsford City Growth Package of improvements designed to alleviate pressure on Chelmsford’s road network and encourage alternative forms of transport. This work forms part of a series of cycle improved proposals taking place such as (links – city centre cycle parking, Great Baddow to city centre, Great Waltham to city centre, city centre cycle connectivity)
The benefits
Creating quality cycling infrastructure between the university, transport hubs and the city centre will encourage cycling and help reduce congestion at peak times.
The raised hybrid cycle tracks, widened segregated cycleway footways and enhanced advisory lanes will help create a visible high-profile, wider and safer cycleway along a strategically important route in the city centre.
The scheme will see over 0.5km of cycle route on the approach to the city centre, and in conjunction with other improvements will make cycling a more attractive option, improving health and wellbeing and discouraging car use.
This will also help relieve issues with parking capacity in and around the University.
What happens next
Essex County Council have issued the scheme to tender, with construction works expected to be completed by early 2020.