A CAMPAIGN has been launched to gather support for a cycle and footpath to be built from junction eight to Burtonwood via Burtonwood Road.

In an open letter published online, Julie Leyland from Burtonwood, who regularly uses this route to cycle to walk, feels that the council and other developments have all benefitted from Omega yet no provision has been given to Burtonwood village.

She said: "During the redevelopment of the Omega site at junction eight there have been many companies that have developed and created jobs for local people and surrounding areas.

"Although these opportunities are within a mile of Burtonwood village, no access has been provided for foot or cycle access in order for workers to get to and from work safely or for residents to access these and other amenities and social venues.

The road is not lit up after dark which enhances the risk of using these by foot or cycle; I feel that this is an incident waiting to happen.

"Many resident like to go for walks or bike rides during the year and yet again this part of the village is cut off.

"I have spoken to local councillors who have said that they are working with planning within Warrington Borough council but there does not seem to be any developments."

Julie added that while she welcomes the opportunity for growth, this also creates other traffic, safety and environmental issues.

She said: "I feel that Omega and all of the developments could easily contribute towards a foot path and cycle path which actually only amounts to one mile.

"For the village community it would enhance our opportunities, link the community to the opportunities on our doorstep but in a safe and sufficient way.

"The bus services are not as regular as we would like, but all would be within a 10 minute walking distance if a foot path was provided.

"Much of the warehouse work is based on a shift pattern and so again a bus service is not always available.

"On a daily basis I increasingly see people using this stretch of road, many of which do not use high visibility clothing. It is a 60mile per hour road, with blind spots in places.

"I ask that you please do consult with the council’s planning department in order to bring the changes needed sooner rather than later."

To join the campaign visit the Warrington Guardian website.