Redmires – what’s been going on?
Suffice to say, our Redmires project hasn’t gone as smoothly as some of our other works. We’ve not been the best at updating you guys, but that’s partly been down to not having firm answers on everything.
So, to bring you all up to date.
Redmires has funds in place, that’s sat in our account waiting – there’s been no change there. Where we and Sheffield City Council have had issues is with planning permission and surrounding issues.
With ground nesting birds on site, specifically Nightjars, we discussed the idea of a partial trail closure on the top section of the track during ground nesting bird season. That’s an option, but expensive to do the works to close/open the section each time. Within 2-4 years, the Nightjars are likely to move on, away from the bike trail and into new felled areas. This is something for us to bear in mind as the project progresses, but isn’t the main reason for the delays – it’s really down to Planning Permission.
Peak District National Park Authority have advised Sheffield City Council to withdraw the current application and submit a full application instead. This is more work for the Council staff and should be submitted around Spring time. Peak Park want more details and information, which means more ecological studies and checks – therefore more time.
Ok, so what about our trail then?
Basically, it’s going to take time – but we’re confident that the planning permission will get through. Sheffield Council staff agree, which is great as it’s those guys doing the legwork here.
In the meantime, we’re working on making sure that we work on the relationships with other users and stakeholders to make sure that we all understand the different points of view.
The aim is for the new application to be submitted this Spring. We’ll then update you once there’s more news from PDNPA.
As ever, any questions please feel free to discuss with us on info@ridesheffield.org.uk
