Work to improve the much‑used shared path along the old railway line between Wootton and Binfield is continuing, with the Isle of Wight Council confirming that the next phase of resurfacing will begin after the Easter weekend.
Contractors were able to complete essential clearance of overhanging branches during February, ahead of the bird‑nesting season.
However, persistent wet weather and flooding along parts of the route meant that substantial resurfacing could only begin in March.
Despite the delayed start, the council has confirmed that the section between Station Road and Park Road will open in time for the Easter weekend, as originally planned.
To help residents and visitors enjoy uninterrupted access over the long bank holiday, work on the next stretch – between Park Road and Belmont Lane Bridge -will be paused until after Easter.
This means the entire route will be available for walkers, cyclists and other users during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
The improvements form part of the wider Island Green Link project, a major investment in sustainable travel supported by the Government’s Levelling‑Up programme.
The scheme aims to create a continuous, high‑quality green travel corridor between Ryde and Yarmouth, including new walking and cycling routes, accessibility upgrades and bus infrastructure improvements.
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chair of the council’s economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee, said:
“We’re pleased to be able to open the first section for Easter as planned and to keep the full route available across the bank holiday weekend.
“The resurfacing and drainage improvements will make this well‑loved path safer and more accessible all year round. We’d like to thank everyone for their patience while these important works continue.”
Let’s hope cyclists use the track, much better than
seeing them cycling side by side holding each others hands
causing mayhem for motorists who PAY to be on the Road.
Cyclists using roads should pay tax and insurance.
WHY ARE THEY EXEMPT!.