Work begins to improve southern end of Cinder Track in Scarborough
The restoration scheme is costing £490,000
A £490,000 restoration scheme to provide much needed improvement to the southern end of the Cinder Track - a popular off road track between Scarborough and Whitby - has begun.
This second phase of work to improve the track covers a 7km stretch between Scarborough and Burniston.
Improvements include the widening or alteration of existing cycle paths and new surfacing. In some sections the track alignment will be altered slightly and a narrow footbridge near Burniston will be replaced.
Access steps will be repaired and new wayfinding signs and seating will be installed to benefit all users. Light touch landscaping will also be carried out.
PBS Construction is undertaking the work in sections on Scarborough Borough Council’s behalf between now and early autumn. Work will be carried during the day, mainly Monday to Friday.
Disruption to local residents and users of the track will be kept to a minimum by working on short sections of the track and keeping the track open as much as possible. Any closures for surface-laying will be temporary and of short duration with diversions indicated.
PBS is writing to residents living closest to the sections of track being restored to provide further information.
The work has been funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) via Sustrans.
The scheme is in line with the Cinder Track restoration plan agreed in 2018 after consultation with the local community and track users.
The first phase of the improvement scheme between Whitby and Hawsker was completed last year.
People can get the latest news about the Cinder Track from the council’s ranger team and stay up to date on the improvement scheme by following the Cinder Track Facebook page.
Paul Thompson, Scarborough Borough Council director, said:
“After seeing the great improvements to the northern end of the track after the completion of phase one, I am really pleased to see the restoration of the southern section underway.
“Anyone who uses the Cinder Track regularly may be wondering why the southern end is being improved now when other stretches, particularly rural sections, are also in need of substantial investment. This is because the present funding package is focussed on sustainable transport links in urban communities.
“We are committed to the restoration of the entire length of the track and are continuing to look for funding opportunities that would directly benefit the rural sections. Meanwhile, our Cinder Track ranger and apprentice continue to address maintenance issues on the track between Scarborough and Whitby.”
Natalie Rea, Sustrans Network Development Manager for Yorkshire, said:
“We are very pleased to facilitate improvements to this popular section of National Cycle Network, complementing recent upgrades at the northern end of the track.
“This piece of work demonstrates the shared ambition of Scarborough Borough Council and partners in making walking and wheeling easier for all. These upgrades will improve the accessibility, safety and inclusivity of the Cinder Track, contributing towards the aspirations of the Cinder Track Restoration Plan.
“Making the National Cycle Network more accessible, safer, interesting and inclusive can help transform the way we travel, improve our health and social connections, and benefit the wider environment and local economy.
“We look forward to further collaborations with partners who share our vision and ambition for active travel.”
Pete Smurthwaite, PBS Chairman, said:
“We are pleased to have been awarded the contract for this scheme and continue our presence as a company in the Scarborough area.
“We already have a portfolio of successful footpath and cycle track schemes that we’ve completed for Hull City Council, North Yorkshire County Council, North East Lincolnshire Council and North Lincolnshire Council.
“We will look to keep disruption to a minimum at this popular location and will be contacting local residents with updates as the project progresses.”