£120,000 link project between Northwich and Winsford

A two-metre wide all-weather path is being built along the River Weaver between Vale Royal Locks and the Blue Bridge on the A556.

The scheme represents the final link in a project to connect the two towns along a 9km route following the traditional river towpath.

Cllr Helen Weltman, Cheshire West and Chester (CWAC) councillor for Davenham and Moulton, said: "The river path is a key off-road link but its condition on this stretch makes it tricky to negotiate, particularly for people with mobility difficulties.

"This investment will transform what is essentially a muddy track into a multi-user path and cycleway and will make even more of this picturesque riverside route accessible to all."

The project is funded by a £60,000 grant from the Waste Recycling Environmental Network (WREN), secured through the Canal and River Trust, £50,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), allocated through the Saltscape project and a £15,000 contribution from CWAC.

Cllr Stuart Parker, CWAC's executive member for culture and economy, said: "I am delighted this scheme will be among the first to benefit from the Saltscape project, which aims to re-connect communities in the Weaver Valley with the remarkable environment on their doorstep.

"The upgraded path will provide a wonderful leisure resource for walkers and cyclists alike, opening up more of our natural heritage for residents and visitors to enjoy."

Due to the remote location of the riverside site, all materials will be transported by barge along the canal from the Canal and River Trust yard in Northwich.

Brian Harvey, North Wales and Borders Partnership chairman with the Canal and River Trust, said: "Transporting the materials required for the construction project by boat makes perfect sense and is an excellent, sustainable solution to the logistical challenge of working in this remote location."

The work is expected to be completed by the end of May.