Sustrans: Improvements to the Solar System Way

The following message was received from Sustrans:

WE’RE MAKING IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SOLAR SYSTEM WAY (NCN 65/TRANS PENNINE TRAIL) BETWEEN NABURN AND RICCALL.

Using funding from the Department for Transport Sustrans are making changes to the Solar System Way to make it more accessible to a wider range of users and to create a more comfortable journey for all.

THE WORK WILL TAKE PLACE ON THE GREENWAY BETWEEN AUTUMN 2021 AND SPRING 2022 and will involve:

· Resurfacing and where possible widening the path

· Removing or redesigning barriers

· Improving signage along the section.

Due to the nature of the works route closures and diversions are expected to be in place periodically throughout the duration.

In order to ensure the new surface stays in good condition into the future it will be necessary to remove a number of trees to prevent root damage to the path. In addition, we are also managing “ash dieback” on this section which will involve felling a number of diseased ash trees which would otherwise become a danger to route-users. The majority of the tree works will be taking place between the bridge over the River Ouse and the access to the greenway from Vicarage Lane.

As the route is a valued wildlife corridor Sustrans is committed to ensuring that biodiversity is protected on the greenway and will use these works as an opportunity to maintain and enhance habitat through planting at least two trees for every tree felled; planting a variety of suitable native trees to diversify the woodland and where possible retaining felled timber on the site as dead wood habitat. We will also provide opportunities for the community to get involved in practical conservation activities.

We understand that this is a well-used and much-loved greenspace and apologise for any inconvenience caused but know that this short-term disruption will ensure that the greenway is made more accessible to all legitimate users and that improvements made will benefit users for many years to come.

This work is being carried out as a part of our “Paths for  Everyone” vision which looks to create a more inclusive National  Cycle Network to make active travel more accessible to people of all  ages and abilities.

If you would like to view our plans for the woodland on this section please visit: https://forestplans.co.uk/solar-system-greenway/

For updates on route closures visit: https://www.facebook.com/SustransYorks,

For information about our Paths for Everyone vision visit: https://www.sustrans.org.uk/about-us/paths-for-everyone