In the revised plans for the Beverley Southern Relief Road a serious error has been made by omitting an island refuge for walkers using Woodmansey footpath number two which will be severed by the new road.

This is the most important public right of way leading south from Beverley town for several reasons.

Firstly, it forms part of the Beverley 20 which is a long established challenge route used by many walkers, young and old.

Secondly, it is part of the Beverley Beaver Trail, created by Beverley Athletic Club with the support of the East Riding of Yorkshire Council and now celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Thirdly, it is used for several regular walking routes, starting from the town both circular and liner including access to Beverley Parks and the Millennium orchard.

Furthermore, it is contrary to the council's own Rights of Way Improvement Plan, dated May 2008, which states that the council will provide safe crossing points on heavily trafficked roads.

This will be heavily trafficked and at the crossing point it will be a single two way carriageway.

Any walker or group of walkers using the route in late afternoon or at other busy periods could find it impassable for very long times even if vehicles were only moving at 30 or 40 miles per hour.

It is absolutely imperative that a 2.5 meter wide refuge island be provided for this crossing as was indicated in the original plans for the proposed road.

I have written to the planning department in greater detail in the hopes that common sense will prevail.

Dennis Parker, Countryside Secretary, Beverley Group, Ramblers' Association