Ecologically sensitive maintenance work to a section of the National Cycle Network between Cowes and Newport is set to finish two weeks ahead of schedule.

The Isle of Wight Council has worked in partnership with ecologists, contractors and the sustainable transport charity Sustrans to rebuild a section of track that had been damaged by burrowing animals.

With active badger sets in the vicinity, work was managed with great care to ensure the animals and their habitats were not disturbed.

Last week the site was visited by the Chief Executive of Sustrans Malcolm Shepherd who highlighted the work as an example of best practice. He said:

“I was very impressed to see the council working closely with partner organisations to ensure the maintenance work was carried out in a sensitive but efficient manner.

“I am continually impressed by the Isle of Wight Council’s commitment to cycling and as an organisation we hope to work more closely with the authority to develop further cycling schemes on the Island.”

Cllr Tim Hunter-Henderson, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for the environment and transport said:

“We worked closely with ecologists and contractors to ensure the work was carried out as quickly as possible to minimise disruption to cyclists and pedestrians without disturbing the habitat of the animals living nearby. We have taken steps to ensure this section of the track is protected against the effects of future burrowing on the cycle track without damaging the animal’s natural habitat.”

The track is expected to re-open for use on Friday 21st November 2008.