A disputed cycling route has been finished in Donnington after receiving approval almost three years previously.

The upgraded cycle lane connecting to Meadow Lane and the riverside path in eastern Oxford was finished last week, following consent granted in October 2023.

The new route enters the recreation ground via a fresh access point on Meadow Lane to the west of the sports pitch and crosses the field alongside the southern edge to join Cavell Road.

The existing entry from Meadow Lane in the north western section of the park has been kept for walkers only, and a kissing gate will be installed.

The route was described as controversial while the local authority pursued planning approval for the volume of trees requiring removal.

Originally 20 trees were planned for removal but ultimately only a limited number were taken out to enable the route to link with Meadow Lane.

The city council announced that new trees will be planted in the vicinity to make up for those removed.

The project involved dismantling current fencing and constructing both a footpath and cycle path, alongside the placement of alternating timber posts, a timber kissing gate, associated planting and signage.

Oxfordshire County Council highlighted that the new route will boost usage of the sports fields and support sustainable transportation.

Construction for the project commenced this February before the bird breeding period.

The main building work started in spring.

The route was anticipated to be finished by late May, but it has been completed ahead of schedule.