CITY Labour chiefs have called on residents to take part in a consultation on the £9million Kepax Bridge being proposed by Worcestershire County Council.
The new walking and cycling bridge from Gheluvelt Park to the Kepax site in St John’s is up for public consultation until next Friday (July 24). The proposals include enhancements to footpaths and existing cycle routes and a foot and cycle path across Kepax Park, as well as the new Kepax Bridge.
Councillor Joy Squires, who represents Arboretum Ward on Worcester City Council, said: “It’s really important local residents make their voice heard during this consultation on the new Kepax Bridge.
“As local councillors, we want to make sure residents living near Gheluvelt Park will not be adversely affected by the inevitable increase in traffic, pedestrians and cyclists.
“I would like to encourage all residents who are able to respond to the consultation with their views.
Local resident Ian Craigan said: “I really welcome the bridge and improvement to river bank access – provided that the local authorities involved can demonstrate that the scheme is part of a wider, more integrated plan.
“I fear the scheme underestimates the volume of use the bridge could attract, particularly during holiday periods. Easy access to Gheluvelt Park’s Splash Pad and play area is going to create massive demand from Westside residents in holiday periods.
“To avoid crossing the main bridge and struggling to find parking, families from all over West Worcester are very likely to drive to near the new bridge and then walk over. This could create further problems for residents with parking and these concerns must be addressed when more detailed plans are presented.”
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/kepaxbridge for more.
