We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the proposed cycle lane on Stamfordham Road (Newbiggin Hall side), a scheme that would result in the removal of nearly 40 mature trees, the loss of green space, and its replacement with extensive stretches of tarmac.

This proposal comes at a time when the local road network is already under significant strain. Recent large-scale housing developments—totalling around 3,000 new homes—have been approved without the necessary infrastructure or alternative routes to ease the pressure on existing roads. As a result, residents are already experiencing worsening congestion, longer journey times, and increased traffic through the area.

Rather than addressing these existing challenges, this scheme risks making them significantly worse. Reducing road capacity on a key route will further restrict traffic flow, increase bottlenecks, and negatively impact residents, commuters, and emergency access. Local businesses, many of which rely on passing trade and accessible parking, also stand to suffer as congestion increases and accessibility declines.

The environmental impact of this proposal is equally concerning. The trees earmarked for removal are not only a defining feature of the area’s character and visual appeal, but they also play an important role in absorbing carbon emissions and improving air quality along an already heavily trafficked road. Their loss would undermine any claimed environmental benefits of the scheme.

Furthermore, the scale of this proposal does not reflect current travel patterns. Cycling remains a very small proportion of journeys, particularly in suburban areas like this, raising serious questions about whether this level of disruption and environmental damage can be justified.

This scheme, as it stands, places unnecessary strain on an already stretched community, removes valued green infrastructure, and fails to address the real transport needs of local residents.