Hampshire County Council to consider next phase of upgrade work for Hayling Billy Trail

If approved, the project would see improvements made to the southern section of the trail. The scheme would be funded through a £500,000 grant from Active Travel England (ATE) via the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and would provide an all-weather surface of up to three metres in width for pedestrians and cyclists, with a soft verge alongside to accommodate horse riders. 

The design would mirror the northern section of the trail, which was upgraded by Hampshire County Council in 2025 using ATE funding to create a more accessible all-weather route and help protect the trail from erosion, with future improvements to the central section currently in design stage. 

Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council's Deputy Leader and Executive Lead Member for Universal Services, said: "This proposal represents the next phase of our longer-term plans to improve this extremely popular walking, cycling and horse-riding route across Hayling Island. 

"I've seen first-hand how well the upgrades to the northern section of the trail have been received. By improving access to this beautiful coastal environment and strengthening links between Havant and the south of Hayling Island, the trail helps more people choose to travel on foot, on wheels, or hoof! 

"The aim is to build on the success of the first phase of improvements, and I look forward to considering them in more detail." 

The Hayling Billy Trail follows the route of a former railway line linking Havant with the southern end of Hayling Island. With no dedicated public rights of way for cycling or horse riding elsewhere on Hayling Island, it provides an important off-road route for both residents and visitors. It also plays a key role in supporting everyday journeys, connecting Hayling Island with shops, services and employment opportunities in Havant. 

Valued for its wide harbour views and abundant wildlife, particularly during the winter months, the route is a popular year-round destination for leisure users. It also forms part of the long-distance Shipwrights Way between Farnham and Portsmouth and carries National Cycle Network Route 2, which ultimately aims to connect Dover and Cornwall along England's south coast. 

The report due to be considered by the County Council also highlights a longer-term aspiration to improve the remaining sections of the Hayling Billy Trail on Hayling Island. Subject to securing the necessary funding and approvals, the aim is to widen and improve the surface along the whole of the 4.5-kilometre off-road route, from the Northern Car Park to Sinah Lane. 

A separate scheme to improve the crossing at Staunton Avenue and Sinah Lane is also planned, enabling the route to continue south towards the seafront.