Some years ago, there was a local proposal to create a cycle path linking us with a neighbouring town (not alongside a road) which would have been a useful link.But they were going to surface it like that, I was led to believe. I complained, writing that many cyclists including me would be unable to use it on my present (road) bike. No joy.
But the path never came into existence, due to I believe being blocked by local landowners. Blessing in disguise?
We continue to have to use the alternatives: a busy main road or a minor road which has become a rat run.
If that path had been built, could we have got the surface upgraded?
Incidentally, many Beeching-axed railway lines in our area have become cycle routes, but they too are mostly surfaced in loose gravel. Another opportunity missed.