6-May-2024
Proposed Smalldean
Diversion
EKFB have announced the immanent closure of the existing bridleway diversion between Smalldean lane and the A413 roundabout, and now propose a diversion via WEN/14, 27 and 13. The current diversion was create because this route was unacceptable.
Elevation profile for the proposed diversion
| Length | Ascent | |
|---|---|---|
| Current | 0.6m | 130' |
| Proposed | 2.8m | 440' |
As can be seen, the proposed diversion is nearly 5 times longer, and involves over 3 times as much ascent as the existing diversion. It also does not comply with undertaking 979 -
“The Secretary of State will require the Nominated Undertaker to use reasonable endeavours to incorporate the following measures for non-motorised users subject to any required approvals from the highway authority under Schedule 4 to the Bill (as enacted) and subject to sufficient land being available within the limits of land that may be acquired or used under the Act and subject to the requisite powers being granted under the Act.
a) Small Dean Lane, District of Aylesbury Vale - a temporary off-carriageway route during construction within the verge of Small Dean Lane between the construction site entrance and the A413 roundabout suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. "
Both WEN/13 and 14 are steep in places, heavy going even for a mountain bike.
The surface of WEN/14 is very rough in places, due to tree routes, and so is unsuitable for road bikes
The lower section of WEN/13 is in poor condition - sections of the hedge have been ripped out, and remnants dumped in the pathway
See https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBoYuZ for more photographs