More than 100 riders and walkers attended the opening of the Sevenoaks East to West walking, wheeling and cycling route recently.
The event, at the Sevenoaks Education Campus, included a free cycle repair workshop, courtesy of the Bike Warehouse in Sevenoaks. Kent Police were also on hand to provide free bike marking and there were information stalls.
The route was officially opened by Cllr Margot McArthur, the council’s vice chairman, followed by two group bike rides, led by the police, along the route to Brittains Common.
Free drinks, provided by Cycling UK, a coffee van and free cycling goodie-bags awaited riders at the destination.
Cllr Irene Roy, Sevenoaks District Council’s cabinet member for Cleaner and Greener, said: “We want to thank the many residents who supported the opening of our first, walking, wheeling and cycling route in Sevenoaks. We were blown away by their support and enthusiasm.
“We also want to thank everyone for helping with the launch with a special mention for The Bike Warehouse in Sevenoaks who gave up their Saturday afternoon to provide free bike safety checks and repairs.”
The two-mile Sevenoaks East to West route provides walkers, wheelers (people on scooters, parents with prams and wheelchair users) and cyclists with a safe route to six schools and local facilities.
It offers a safe and attractive opportunity for residents to exercise, benefitting their health, while improving air quality and helping to cut the District’s carbon footprint. The route should also take some cars off the road, especially at busy school times, helping to reduce traffic congestion.
The route links the three schools at the Sevenoaks Education Campus in the east of the town with Knole Academy, Sevenoaks Primary School and Walthamstow Junior School and Amherst and Riverhead Schools in the west. The route goes close to Sevenoaks Rail station and Sevenoaks Hospital.
The project was delivered in partnership with Kent County Council with a £1.2m grant secured from the Government. The launch event is supported by funding from Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival grant.
