Plans for a new ten-mile traffic-free path between Bridport and Maiden Newton are set to be unveiled to the public.
Sustrans, the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity which co-ordinates the 12,000-mile National Cycle Network, will release its blueprints at public meetings next month and wants local people to add their input.
The planned route will follow the disused railway between Bridport and Maiden Newton, which was closed in 1975. Sustrans plans to resurface the line to enable year-round access by cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users.
“We want to find out what people think about the whole idea,” said Peter Henshaw of Sustrans. “Far from disappearing into the undergrowth when the old line closed, most of it is still there, and well-used by walkers with local landowners’ permission.
“Not only would the path generate tourism and benefit local businesses, it would also provide a safe, traffic-free route into Bridport and Maiden Newton for work, shopping and school trips.”
Several landowners have already agreed to lease or sell their section of line to Sustrans, while the Dorset Wildlife Trust is allowing the path to run through its stretch at Powerstock Common.
Drop-in meetings will be held at Bridport Town Hall on February 5 from 5pm to 8pm and at Maiden Newton Village Hall on February 12 from 5pm to 7.30pm. Visitors can examine plans for the project in detail, and Sustrans staff will be on hand to answer any questions.
Source: Sustrans
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Bridport and Maiden Newton residents to give opinion on proposed traffic-free path
