Pushing Pedals: From Guildford To Godalming – There Is A Greener Way

Published on: 3 Nov, 2021
Updated on: 3 Nov, 2021

This is the latest monthly column on local cycling by the Guildford Bicycle User Group (G-BUG). Its vision is to make cycling in Guildford safer, more convenient and fun. Members share a passion for making the borough more accessible through increased cycling.

By Bridie Sullivan

The landscape around us is changing, physically, politically and as with many local planning proposals afoot, it could affect you personally.

Last month’s budget promised a post-Brexit, post-pandemic, investment of billions to deliver on their nationwide plan to connect towns and cities by investing in roads and railways, beginning an infrastructure revolution.

Photo by Kai Bossom.

With such significant funding from central government, our councils will be setting out their stalls over the coming months to ensure they get a share.

Since the pandemic, more of us have begun to reduce our reliance on cars for local trips, family leisure time and, where the infrastructure exists to feel safe, cycle our commute.

Cycle lane on the A281 out of Guildford town centre.

Alternatively, more are opting to explore our surroundings by bicycle or on foot. Between Guildford and Godalming it is possible to access the river, traffic-free paths, parks and the existing greenway.

However, much more could be done to improve the connections between these two towns and increase access for all.

Three councils, Surrey, Waverley and Guildford are consulting on proposals for a Guildford to Godalming Greenway scheme, a 7km cycling and walking route.

The proposal starts in Guildford where the A281 meets the High Street. It includes new to improved aspects, ranging from the introduction of a two-way segregated cycle track, toucan crossings, widening paths and better lighting. It takes in Dagley Lane, through to Broadford Road (A248), Oakdene Road, Mill Lane and New Pond Road.

The existing pedestrian/cycleway, parallel to the A281, by Shalford Meadow on the southern edge of Guildford.

The endpoint in Godalming is yet to be determined while SCC work with Waverley Borough Council on their consultation. They are also consulting on options to provide a cycle link along The Burys and through the Phillips Memorial Park.

If you would like to discuss Waverley and Surrey’s proposals in person, view maps of the proposed routes, study plans and drawings and submit comments, you can visit Waverley Borough Council offices on Thursday, November 4, between 15:00 – 19:30. Or view it online here.

Photo by Marcus Spiske.

If you have a view on the Guildford to Godalming Greenway scheme please share it with your local councillors and SCC. The public consultation is open until November 21, 2021.

Visit this link for more information and to formally respond.