HOPES of an off-road cycling route between two Tyne Valley communities have been dashed.

The proposed scheme, linking up Hexham and Corbridge, was set to bring both tourism and environmental benefits to the district.

But the ambitious project, which had the backing of local councillors, has been turned down by Northumberland County Council.

It was one of three priorities earmarked by Hexham Town Council to be included on the local authority’s local transport plan.

At last Monday’s town council meeting, however, received a letter which stated that the scheme would not be going ahead.

It read: “The distance and land acquisition required make the cost of this prohibitive.”

It was a blow for councillors who have been vocal in their support of the scheme, including town councillor Cath Homer, who also represents Hexham East on the county council.

It came just weeks after Coun. Homer launched Northumberland County Council’s vision for cycling and walking in the county, with the ambitious strategic plan including 12 local cycling and walking infrastructure plans submitted to the Department for Transport.

l A family walk and bike ride will take place on Saturday, August 29, with participants venturing from Hexham’s Tyne Green, for a socially distanced outing to Acomb, and back to Hexham’s Market Place.

It follows a successful event in July, and the organisers said they aimed to raise awareness of the urgent need for safer walking and cycling routes in the area, in the interests of road safety and the environment.

Climate activist Steve Ridd said better cycling and walking infrastructure was needed.