Woodpecker Walk

The proposal for Woodpecker Walk is to re-surface the main pedestrian and cycle path between Rolt Street and Edward Street, which has in many places become damaged by tree roots. The area in the vicinity of the youth centre acts as a focal point, and will therefore benefit from a higher quality resin bound material, along with the entry points to the path at Edward Street and Woodpecker Walk. The remainder of the path will be resurfaced in asphalt, but with some of the existing paved sections around the periphery to be retained or re-laid where they have become uneven.

The retaining wall around one of the raised planters and surrounding footway has become severely damaged by roots from one of the trees contained within it. Advice is being sought from the arboriculture team, however, it is likely this tree will need to be removed in order to make repairs to the wall and adjacent surfacing. There is a risk that any remedial action without removal of the tree, may also result in damage to the tree. The initial proposal is that this tree would be replaced by two new trees, but of a smaller species that is less likely to cause further damage.

During the initial community engagement process, concerns were also raised in relation to personal security along the route. Advice is therefore being sought on the planting in all planters and adjacent areas to see what measures can be taken to help improve the light and visibility along the route. This could involve raising tree canopies or replacing some of the planting with more appropriate species, but this would need to be within the limited budget available for the scheme.

Works to improve Woodpecker Walk are due to commence on 26th July 2021, for 2 weeks.