Calls to repair the path along the bottom of Cadborough Cliff were given unanimous backing by Rother District Council on Monday 23 February. Councillors approved a motion demanding East Sussex County Council reconstruct the route within 12 months.
The path, which is part of the national cycle route, runs between Gibbet Marsh and Float Lane.
A large section of the track is impassable in wet weather, and has been for at least four years said Rye and Winchelsea Councillor Simon McGurk in a report to council. “For much of the year, the condition of the surface renders the path impassable for cyclists, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, parents with buggies and those who are less sure-footed, significantly restricting accessibility and excluding many residents and visitors.”
“It is no longer acceptable to have a so-so muddy route that is not accessible to all,” said Councillor Sue Burton. “It’s in a very bad state.”
“I know the path well,” said Councillor Paul Osborne. “Twenty years ago it was improved, but it is now impassable.” He noted the improved cycle path between Jurys Gap and Lydd as an example of what could be achieved.
Providing a safe route away from the A259 between Rye and Winchelsea was also seen as vital, councillors heard.
The council approved writing to East Sussex County Council urging it to commit funding to the urgent repair and reconstruction of the track from Gibbet Marsh to Float Lane within 12 months.
The decision was welcomed by Nick Hanna, chair of Sussex Greenways. “We’re really encouraged by the amount of support this got from councillors. Now we’re looking forward to ESCC stepping up and getting this route sorted out. The cost is relatively small but the benefit to the local community would be huge. We’re hoping they can complete it in time for the summer.”