News

DEAD END FOR CYCLE TRACK

Hawkinge Parish Councillors failed to back plans for a cycle track and footpath from the Community Centre to Canterbury Road which would continue in a straight line from the existing path.

It was considered that too much of the Village Hall car park would be lost , but no councillors produced plans to back up their claims at the Parish Council meeting o­n Wednesday (13 July).

They have however voted in favour of a longer route running along the rear of the Village Hall car park to the footpath through the alleyway adjacent to the Village Hall.

There is no provision for the continuation of the cycle track and improvements will need to be made to the slope o­n the existing footpath.

Parish Council Chairman David Callahan said: " I am extremely disappointed that the joint footpath and cycle track will not be extended directly to Canterbury Road.

"There was a strong possibility that Shepway District Council would find the funding for the final phase of the path.

"A big question mark remains over whether they will be willing to fund another route."

Hawkinge and Shepway District Councillor Peter Smith said: "I am very unhappy with the Parish Council decision.

"Everything logical seems to be thrown out by this Parish council. The decision goes against the wishes of many villagers."

If the plans do go ahead Hawkinge ratepayers could be left to pick up the bill for the Council's decision.

The footpath alongside the Parish Hall was opened up to give easier access to the Community Centre and the Post Office but it has been criticised by some villagers for being dangerous in the dark and during icy weather. There is no lighting and the slope entering the Community Centre car park is steep and without any hand rails.