CAMPAIGNERS fighting against a new cycle route in Colchester say there is already an alternative available.

Work has begun on the £126,000 taxpayer-funded cycle route in Crouch Street.

But cyclists can already get into the heart of Colchester town centre along a national cycle route up Rawstorn Road and near the Mercury Theatre, according to campaigners.

Paula Whitney, co-ordinator of Colchester Friends of the Earth, said: “National cycle route one is already there and just badly signed.

“Half the cyclists know that and use it.”

Ms Whitney and ward member Bill Frame are frustrated the new route is going ahead.

They claim it is dangerous for shoppers, especially the schoolchildren using Tesco Express at lunchtimes. They also argue it is dangerous for the pavement to be shared between pedestrians and cyclists.

Cyclists will also have to switch sides, going the wrong way along a one-way street and will then be allowed to use the subway.

Ms Whitney said if you put together all the problems and bear in mind there is a perfectly acceptable route already, the scheme is “sheer madness”.

Mr Frame added: “This is seriously dangerous. I’ve been told the only reason for doing it is to give a straight route to St John’s, but there are other routes.”

Jennifer Gudka, Essex County Council’s east area highway liaison officer, said: “It is money for Colchester Cycle Town. Half was provided by Cycle England and there was extensive consultation with Crouch Street.”

The new route will enable cyclists to use Crouch Street to get to St John’s. To do so they must cross two roads, travel on pavements and between parked cars.