A PLAN to build a cycle path on a well used footpath between Gorleston and Hopton has received a mix response from the community it could serve.People commonly use the Warren Road path between the old Gorleston squash club and the Hopton Holiday Village to walk or cycle between the two communities near Great Yarmouth.

A PLAN to build a cycle path on a well used footpath between Gorleston and Hopton has received a mix response from the community it could serve.

People commonly use the Warren Road path between the old Gorleston squash club and the Hopton Holiday Village to walk or cycle between the two communities near Great Yarmouth.

Plans are now at an advanced stage to build a proper cycle way on Warren Road to encourage children and families to ditch their cars on the school run or on their travels.

It is also claimed that the new cycle path, believed to cost �90,000, will be much safer than a current cycle path along the A12.

But after a public meeting of objectors on Thursday, Norfolk County Council's transport planners are now weighing up their comments.

The objectors say that a new route would be on a private road, could see cyclists knocking into people and it is not needed as there is an adequate cycle path along the A12.

A consultation has also seen 27 people voice their opposition - compared to 16 pro-cycle path responses from residents and also support from local schools, the police and the Hopton Parish Council.

People in favour of the cycle plans are demanding that county hall does not ditch its plans in the wake of the negative reaction.

Hopton parish council chairman Mike Butcher said: “It is a shame that the objectors seem determined to attempt to scupper a worthwhile scheme that will potentially benefit thousands of people in the general area and beyond.”

Objector Bert Collins, a county and borough councillor, said: “Are we going to spend �90,000 on a path that we do not really need?”

The need for the cycle path was identified in a 1996 Yarmouth cycling strategy to provide a convenient, safe and attractive route.

Steven Reilly, Norfolk County Council spokesman, said: “Having met with residents last week, we are currently weighing up their feedback about the proposed scheme.”