THE feasibility of a cycle path running alongside the canal in Middlewich has been met with mixed feelings by Middlewich Town Council.

At a recent meeting of the town council, a debate took place on the suggestion and proved controversial

Clr Mike Hunter said a cycle way could be beneficial for numerous Middlewich residents making their way to work along Booth Lane - to Ideal Standard, British Salt and RHM.

But Clr Anna Usherwood said she could never approve a cycle path alongside the canal because it could be dangerous and would disturb anglers and walkers using the canalside.

Clr Hunter said: "I think we should provide a cycle path along Booth Lane, from Wardle Bridge right the way along to Sandbach.

"The reason for this is that quite a lot of people cycle or walk to work along this road.

"Because the road is a dangerous one, we should be encouraging people to cycle on a path. It is the biggest accident blackspot in town.

"We should get together with British Waterways and Cheshire County Council to see what we can do."

Clr Usherwood disagreed: "I can't ever approve a cycle path on a canal tow path.

"Canals are used for boats. They moor up and it's dangerous for cycles.

"Many bikes do not have bells and they come up behind you quickly. They can easily knock you over. Also the canal path is not very wide in places.

"I know this is a green issue and it makes sense for people to cycle but I'm not happy with it alongside the canal.

"I think what we really need to push for is a bypass."

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