AMBITIOUS plans to connect Halstead with villages across the district could become a reality in just under three years.

But a report put together by Halstead Town Council has warned the scheme will need support from councils at all levels if it is to become a reality.

Town councillors are set to hold talks on the latest proposals for the new cycle route between Halstead and Earls Colne.

It is hoped a segregated cycle path can be set up near to the A1124 to offer better and safer facilities for cyclists.

Proposals were first put forward in January for a new cycle lane which was originally due to connect Earls Colne and Coggeshall.

However, it has since been extended to Halstead and Kelvedon after landowners showed a willingness to get involved.

The route, between Earls Colne and Halstead, would runs down Station Road from Earls Colne, turn left down Elms Hall road to Langley Mill.

From there, it would use the old railway track to Halstead, where it would need to re-cross the A1124 to join up with Halstead Town centre.

The report outlining the proposals adds: “Clearly there is a potential use by commuters from Halstead to the Earls Colne Business Park and in the other direction to the Bluebridge Business Park as well as the town/village centres.

“When the full route is realised then commuting to the station at Kelvedon will allow connections by rail to London.

“The increase of cycling for leisure has been a notable feature of the coronavirus epidemic, recognised by the Government’s desire to massively boost cycling in general.

“The route offers residents the opportunity to safely cycle to Coggeshall and then to Marks Hall Arboretum and to Earls Colne.”

The report adds: “Safe, surfaced paths help provide year round use for active travel for all – family groups, walkers, the disabled, cyclists and joggers.”

The report, which will be discussed in Monday’s (December 14) town council meeting, all suggests Halstead could be connected with further reaching parts of mid Essex through cycle routes, including Braintree, Witham and Bishop Stortford.