THE construction of a new cycling route which will connect Malton to Pickering and provide additional opportunities for active tourism and outdoor activities gets underway this week.

Ryedale District Council(RDC) secured a grant of £628,000 from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development to develop the cycle route, which will fill a missing link between the existing Yorkshire Wolds National Cycle network and routes through the North York Moors National Park.

It will enable cycle tourists visiting Ryedale to have a choice of routes: south to the Yorkshire Wolds or north to the North York Moors, Dalby Forest and the Yorkshire Coast.

The paths will mainly follow existing country roads and bridleways, with bridleway sections to be improved using good quality crushed stone to provide a surface suitable for families and less confident cyclists - as well as for horse riders and walkers.

Phillip Spurr, Programme Director for Economic Development, Business and Partnerships, said: “We are delighted that work on the Malton to Pickering cycle route is about to get underway. RDC is very grateful to the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development for the funding and for the support we have received from Ryedale Cycle Forum, North Yorkshire County Council and many local businesses and attractions.

“The project will connect communities, provide a safe and enjoyable link to employment and training and will give residents and families the opportunity to explore their surrounding areas by bike or on foot.

“The new route is expected to attract visitors with a keen interest in active tourism. It links these two popular market towns and provides access to a number of visitor attractions, accommodation centres, facilities and events along the Malton to Pickering corridor. It also fills a gap in the cycling infrastructure and facilitates onward travel by bike to a number of destinations.

“The Council has been working closely with partners to plan this project to minimise disruption to local residents and road-users, but we apologise for any inconvenience these works may cause.”

Works are being undertaken by Colas Limited with the final cycle route expected to open in summer 2021. Work will be done in stages to minimise disruption and diversion routes will be set up and maintained over sections of the works as they progress.