NIMBYs against cycling

I've just started working in a new location and have been 'sussing out' potential routes in order to cycle to work. Making use of a particular cycle path, the quickest way onto it was through a gate and up a 20m muddy, root infested path (a walking/carrying bike job). Out of curiosity I e-mailed Sustrans to suggest that, whilst I was happy to walk, improving the path (bit of gravel or similar) would be a good idea. They responded (good on them) to say that their original plan was to put a ramp in where the path is, but it didn't go ahead due to objections from local residents. Bit of a shame as this would allow safe access to other cycle infrastructure avoiding a busy roundabout. Anyway, Sustrans are planning to smarten up the path a bit and I'll continue to cycle through this little 'peon fiefdom' (location of these plebs withheld!)