A PATH that links Northwich High Street to the Barons Quay development has taken a step closer to completion following a lengthy delay.

Builders have started work on the walkway where Ryman Stationery used to be and when finished, will provide easy access between Northwich’s traditional shopping area and the new multi-million pound project.

The work has been delayed for several months due to an ongoing legal battle between the council and the owners of an adjoining building.

News of construction work commencing has been welcomed by businesses, who are hopeful that the new link will aid footfall and the relationship between Barons Quay and the rest of Northwich.

Andrew Moore, General Manager of the Odeon, said: “The opening of the walkway will provide much easier, direct and scenic access to our site from the high street, hopefully providing greater footfall to our Costa cafe.

“This will also integrate Barons Quay more with Northwich and hopefully bring greater awareness to the development.”

Wildwood Northwich’s manager, Rui Fernandes, is in agreement with Andrew and believes the future is bright.

“The walkway will definitely help the relationship between the old and new parts of Northwich,” he said.

“For us at Wildwood it’s great as we are the first thing you’ll see as you pass by the new walkway.

“It’s great to see things moving in Northwich, exciting.”

The news was also welcomed by Mark Henshaw, Northwich Business Improvement District officer.

He said: “I know that some businesses have been frustrated by the lack of progress on the walkway but now that work has begun everyone can look positively to the future.

“Once the walkway is open it will create the perfect link between the traditional High Street and the development which will benefit businesses both in the town centre and at Barons Quay.”

An official opening date for the walkway is yet to be revealed however it is hoped that work can be completed before the town’s Christmas Extravaganza on Saturday, November 25.