GB-Lowestoft: Cycle Bridge Design Project *Duplicated*

Description

A design in principle was completed by Sustrans in a previous Feasibility Report completed by them in April 2017. A preferred option was identified in that Feasibility Report which would enable crossing of all abilities on bicycles, pedestrians and pushchairs, to the east of the existing Network Rail footbridge. The design now requires further work and completion to enable Waveney District Council to become Planning Ready.As part of the vision in the Area Action Plan (AAP) it is highlighted that the need to reduce the impact of car travel through improved or new connections for walking and cycling provision. The existing footbridge at Constable Close is only a footbridge and is not Equalities Act compliant and unusable for prams, pushchairs or cyclists of all abilities. A new cycle & pedestrian footbridge across the railway would allow the cycle infrastructure to avoid the current pinch points and accident black spots on the A12 to the east and the A146 to the west, these are both shared crossings. The main purpose of the bridge is to replace the already existing footbridge over the Lowestoft-Norwich and Lowestoft-Ipswich railway line with an accessible for all crossing. Also there is the possibility of an extension to this bridge identified in the AAP to enable cyclists to cross over Lake Lothing. This is not a guarantee to happen but the design must enable the extension at a later date if required.