Sustrans route improvement project wins Oxford Preservation Trust’s ‘Landscape and public realm’ award

At a virtual ceremony on Tuesday 23 February, Sustrans’ route improvement scheme at Kennington won an Oxford Preservation Trust award in the ‘Landscape and Public Realm’ category.

person holding oxford preservation trust award plaque and bike on traffic free shared path

The award-winning scheme improved the mile-long traffic-free path at Kennington Meadows. Photo: Ed Nix/Oxford Preservation Trust.

The improved stretch of National Cycle Network Route 5 connects to the Thames Path into Oxford and the new and existing housing at Kennington.

Making the route better for everyone

The traffic-free path has been widened and resurfaced. A new drainage system has been installed in the meadow.

Barriers to access have been removed or modified to make it more accessible for everyone.

And it was all delivered with great sensitivity to the natural environment it passes through.

Upgrading a traffic-free route into Oxford

By upgrading this route, people have an alternative to joining the traffic on the usually busy A34.

The improved access and infrastructure have made it far easier for people to walk and cycle for their everyday journeys into the city.

The project was funded by Highways England and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Providing a safe alternative to using the car

Our Director for the South of England, James Cleeton said:

“We’re delighted to have won this award from Oxford Preservation Trust.

"These brilliant improvements provide the people of Kennington, Oxford and the surrounding areas with a real alternative to jumping in their cars.

“It’s great to see the removal of restrictive barriers making this route more accessible for those in adapted cycles and mobility aids, as well as those on foot, bicycle and scooter.

"And by choosing to walk or cycle on this route, people can enjoy being surrounded by nature during their everyday journeys.”