Sincil Bank £3m walking and cycling improvements recommended for approval

Lincolnshire county councillors have endorsed plans to rejuvenate Lincoln's Sincil Bank area, focusing on improving the walking and cycling infrastructure. The £3 million project includes creating a new green corridor for cyclists and pedestrians between the entrance to the LNER Stadium and Kesteven Street, implementing a revised one-way system, and making several aesthetic improvements.

It will be funded by a portion of the £19 million Lincoln Town Deal funding awarded to the city in 2020 by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. During a Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday, June 10, Sam Edwards, head of highways infrastructure and laboratory services, explained that the scheme aims to improve "alternative travel patterns".

He warned that there will likely be some disruption to local businesses and residents due to road closures when construction begins next summer, but assured that the council will appoint a public liaison to provide updates on progress. Following the proceedings, Councillor Kevin Clarke highlighted that the project was "very key" for the area.

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"Speaking as an ex-resident of Sincil Bank, I knew how that area was going down and this will improve it," he said, specifically praising the proposed cycling paths. Although some residents have been hesitant about the scheme, with some labelling it a "waste of money" on social media, Councillor Clarke added: "The consultation has taken place, and residents have had the opportunity to attend these meetings and put their case forward.

"As in all cases, you get some that want it and some that don’t want it." As the highways authority, the county council is assisting the city council with the development.

Following Monday's meeting, leader of the county council Martin Hill was recommended to approve the improvement scheme. Councillor Richard Davies has been recommended to approve the undertaking of a procurement process for construction and delivery.