Adoption of Downham's Lane as Public Highway

Despite both the City and County Council's performing various works on the Lane over recent years (largely in recognition of the important part it plays as a local cycle route) the Lane itself has never been designated as a public highway.

The background to this change is that in November 2010 the Rights of Way and Access Team (on Cambridgeshire County Council) was approached by Cambridge City Council's Cycling Team regarding dedication of part of Downham's Lane, Cambridge in order that that Team might undertake improvements to the route for the benefit of pedestrians and cyclists.

As you may know, Downham's Lane has been heavily used as a through-route between Milton Road and residential estates by pedestrians and cyclists for many years the change to a public highway would therefore not only enable improvement works to be undertaken, but also potentially save the County Council substantial amount of officer time.

Making the change would also clearly contribute to local traffic management in encouraging safe off-road cycling and walking. Various City and County Council policies support work such as this, particularly the Northern Corridor Area Transport Plan for Cambridge adopted in 2003.

The proposed status of highway is a public restricted byway, which confers equal rights for pedestrians and cyclists but does not permit motorised vehicles.

Three landowners are involved - the University of Cambridge, Ranc Care Homes Ltd and Cambridge City Council. All have consented to the proposal.

The final decision will be made by the Director Highways & Access on Monday 4th April. As your local Councillor I'll be supporting the move.