The shared pedestrian/cycle path connecting Fairfield to Stotfold along the Hitchin Road is not fit for purpose.

The pathway/cycle path is already narrow which prevents two-way traffic or for cyclists to safely pass pedestrians without having to step out onto the busy Hitchin Road to make room.

This pathway is used by an increasing number of pedestrians, cyclists, pushchairs & wheelchairs in both directions, it is a particular concern to parents for the safety of the school children travelling to & from the ever-expanding middle/upper schools of Pixbrook as well as Etonbury Academy’s in Stotfold - The path is now busier than ever as a result which will only ever increase in time.

Fairfield Parish Council raised concerns directly to Central Bedfordshire Council in March 2021 with a reminder that provision needs to be made for the cycle path that forms part of the Green Wheel, to date no response has been received.

Central Bedfordshire Council recently approved plans for a local housing developer (Abbeymill) to remove the hedge & build closer to the existing footpath in August 2021 without making any reference to, or provision for, an upgraded path.

There has been a history of complaints made to Central Bedfordshire Council about the footpath in the past 18 months which have picked up since post-pandemic restrictions have lifted.

Given the continued development of more & more houses in Fairfield as well as recent incidents on Fairfield's roads this situation will only get worse.

A proactive approach with positive action is now sought from Central Bedfordshire Council to improve the current situation by local residents who have school children using this road.