Thousands back campaign for new cycle path linking busy Bucks train station to Thame
Further progress has been made in the long-running campaign to build a new cycle path linking Thame and Haddenham.
A petition which has been signed by 3,630 people has reached Downing Street calling for the construction of the Haddenham Thame Greenway.
Campaigners have named the new route a ‘greenway’ as it would be designed to accommodate walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users.
For decades residents of the town and village have been calling for safe alternative routes linking the town and village. Campaigners say this was first raised in 1987 after the construction of the popular commuter railway station Haddenham and Thame Parkway.
At present, the A418 is the only direct road between the places and it is a high speed road which is extremely busy during rush hours, making the route unsafe for walkers, cyclists and wheelers. Residents are left with no viable non-motorised alternative.
Freddie van Mierlo,Thame’s MP, handed in the petition alongside Mid Buckinghamshire MP Greg Smith whose constituency includes Haddenham, Thame Mayor Councillor Andy Gilbert, Oxfordshire County Councillor Kate Gregory, and other campaigners.
Mr van Mierlo said: “Presenting this petition at 10 Downing Street sends a clear message that residents expect action. For decades people have asked for a safe route between Thame and Haddenham, and this level of public support shows just how important this issue is locally. A greenway would make everyday journeys safer, healthier and more sustainable, and I will continue to press for this vital link to be delivered.”
Bucks Council revealed that it has committed funding to the scheme alongside Oxfordshire County Council. The council says it is looking to set up ‘public engagement’ around the project this year. However, the council has cautioned that it is a ‘complex’ project which will require ‘further investigative work’.
Councillor Gregory added: “This petition reflects years of concern from residents about the lack of a safe route between Thame and Haddenham. A greenway would give people confidence to walk, cycle or wheel for everyday journeys, while delivering clear benefits for health, safety and the environment. It is a sensible and achievable project that deserves serious commitment.”