Back in March of this year we were delighted to learn that the Derbyshire County Council (DCC) were approving funding of £100,000 for a feasibility study for our cycleway. Following this announcement, members of Derwent Valley Trust (DVT) met with DCC representatives in May. The meeting was very positive, with a clear sense that DVT and DCC will be able to work closely as the study is undertaken.
The DCC are also developing the White Peak Loop. Because part of our route coincides with this, the DCC White Peak Loop web page also mentions the feasibility study.
We now understand that DCC have appointed Aecom as consultants for the feasibility study. This is good news, as Aecom have a respected track record in cycleway planning and integration. They were for example responsible for implementing the section of our route between Matlock and Rowsley, so bring good local knowledge and experience.
We aim to work closely with Aecom and DCC as the study progresses. We’ve already started sharing with them copies of our key documents. We will challenge and assist the consultants as they progress their plans; our emphasis will of course be not if the cycleway can be delivered, but how.
