NO WILDLIFE has been harmed during the construction of Newbold Comyn cycle trails.
That was the conclusion of a Warwickshire Police report after officers were called in to investigate concerns on the site where the development of family cycle trails are under way.
The construction of one small section of the cycle trails had to be suspended amid “ecological concerns” last month.
It has now emerged those ecological concerns related to the welfare of local wildlife.
No date has been set for the work to resume.
The aim of the cycle trails – on a small section of the former golf course – is to provide a safe place for families to cycle and has been made possible thanks to a £423,500 grant from Sport England and British Cycling through the Places to Ride fund. Additional funding is being provided from the Community Infrastructure Levy.
In a statement, Warwick District Council said it was working closely with the relevant regulatory bodies to find a suitable solution for the wildlife so the public recreation facility could be completed.
WDC Leader Coun Andrew Day said: “We promptly reported our concerns to the police and thank them for their considered response. Wildlife by its nature is ‘wild’; often moving location to take advantage of changing environments, so I’m pleased to see that the protection measures have worked, with the Police confirming that no harm has been caused.
“Our officers and contractors will continue to operate to the highest ecological standards, to maintain the necessary balance between the needs of humans and nature, so all can safely enjoy our beautiful, shared green spaces.
“Plans will be updated to take account of these changing circumstances, based on the advice of the ecologists and the regulatory bodies supporting the project. I’m confident that a suitable solution can be found.”
In the meantime, work on most of the trails continues as planned.
Coun Day added: “Many keen cyclists are eager to start using the trails as they take shape, but I ask that even though some sections may look ready, that we hold on until the safety checks are completed. Rest assured that just as soon as we’re able, we’ll open this much anticipated new facility for everyone to enjoy. In the meantime, let’s stay safe and follow the advice given on the signage in this construction area.”
Once completed, the cycle trails will be completely free to use and will eventually be supported by a cycling hub in the former golf shop to provide cycle hire facilities, a café, and toilets. The hub will bring an important listed building on the site back in to use, preserving and improving its character and condition.
