THE LATEST extension to the Bike North Birmingham route, aimed at encouraging families and new cyclists to get on their bike, will begin work next March.
The plans, which could see bicycle hire available at Wyndley and Erdington leisure centres, will connect the current route from Pype Hayes Park through New Hall Valley to Plantsbrook, with Sutton Park Town Gate and Sutton railway station.
Continuing out of the park through Boldmere Gate, the path also links with green spaces such as Witton Lakes and Brookvale Park, and continuing to the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal, which completes the circular route.
Consultation ended last month on the plans which officials hope will increase activity levels and help reduce obesity.
Graham Lennard of Birmingham City Councils transportation services said: We have a host of sustainable, fun and health activities planned for workplaces, schools and local communities.
We wanted to create a mix of safe, on and off road routes that are attractive to leisure travellers to encourage families, novice riders, walkers and cyclists into Sutton town centre.
The s6.4million project, funded by Big Lottery and Birmingham City Council, will be used for the creation of new cycle routes, a new safe crossing on Clifton Road, activities and courses in cycle training and bike repair.
Councillor Malcolm Cornish (New Hall) said: I think we support the new route wholeheartedly, just with the caveat to ensure you get the balance right between cyclists and pedestrians.
| 
