T0559 A428 Connecting Communities - Designated Funds

Feasibility Study Summary National Highways is looking to carry out the feasibility to create a new riverside shared use route situated near Black Cat roundabout at the western end side of the A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet Improvements scheme. The A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet scheme is already providing significant improvements in NMU provision to the Roxton within the scheme's boundary, but there is a considerable desire to go above and beyond this boundary to provide additional provision and to add further value for the Walkers, Cyclists and Horse-riders in the local area.

This feasibility study will seek to identify the best route to connect Roxton to Little Barford and St Neots as well as to provide new crossings over the river to Wyboston. The new path will make significant improvements to safety, connectivity and reduce severance for the villages in the area.

By delivering this project we will:

• Leave a lasting positive legacy by providing access to green space, enhancing both mental and physical wellbeing and building a positive reputation for National Highways and the A428 project.
• Increase safety across several villages in the area surrounding A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet, by providing a segregated route to users.
• Connect communities which are currently cut-off by the A1.
• Improve working relationship between Bedford Borough Council, Central Bedfordshire Council and to help to drive advocacy and continuous support for the A428 scheme.