The cycle path along the east side of the Noord-Willemskanaal opened six months earlier thanks to constructive consultation. That is what the Cycling Association Groningen has announced.
“As the Fietsersbond, we have been concerned for a long time about diversions that are not well signposted,” says chairman Wim Borghols. “For years we have also been trying to get a foot in the door with the municipality. Because if you are dealing with work, it is the contractor who has to propose a diversion, which the municipality then has to approve. As you know, there are many diversions and closures due to the work on the southern ring road. However, we have had good contact with the municipality for a number of months.”
“Good constructive consultation”
Borghols continues: “We have also had good constructive talks with the Herepoort Combination, Aanpak Ring Zuid, Groningen Ookbaar and the municipality. We regularly discuss the projects. Why is that so? Can’t that be faster? And so the bicycle valley was also discussed. It would remain closed until December due to a number of works that still had to be done. It has now been rolled out there that it can still be opened, so that a good cycling route is available for many cyclists.”
Julianabrug
The chairman is happy: “As I said, there is a lot of work and closures. I don’t know if you know the situation around the Juliana Bridge, but part of it has yet to be demolished. This means that the cycle path has to be closed again there. That is why it is now nice that the bicycle valley can be used. You offer cyclists a nice route. And the constructive consultation with all parties is simply very pleasant. It’s great that everyone is listening and acting on it.”
Grind
Borghols explored the new route on Saturday: “It has become very beautiful. A new road is always nice. I do think it is a pity that there is a lot of gravel on the road. For now that’s just annoying, later when it’s run in properly it will get better. It offers benefits in adverse weather conditions in autumn and winter.”
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