CYCLISTS and walkers will be able to navigate the River Weaver more fully thanks to a £120,000 upgrade.

A 2km mud track between Vale Royal Locks and Newbridge has been transformed into a multi-user path and cycleway.

The 2m-wide path, which is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, links directly into the Weaver Parkway, in Winsford.

The three-month project was funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) with support from British Waterways and the Weaver Valley Partnership Board.

It was managed by the CWAC’s Weaver Valley team and undertaken by local firm Booher Construction Services.

Clr Helen Weltman said: “The river path is a key off-road link between Northwich and Winsford but in its former condition this section was tricky to negotiate, particularly for people with mobility difficulties.

“This investment by the council means even more of the path is fully accessible.

“I hope it will encourage even more people to enjoy this picturesque route.”

The council is now looking to secure funding to upgrade the remaining 1.2km of the path, between Vale Royal Locks and Blue Bridge.

Geoff Hope-Terry, chairman of the Weaver Valley Partnership Board, said: “This newly completed section means that 85 per cent of the route has now been upgraded.

“Once completed, the off-road multi-user pathway from Northwich town centre to Winsford Flashes will stretch 8.2km, providing a wonderful leisure resource for walkers and cyclists alike.”

Nicola Lewis-Smith, enterprise manager for British Waterways, said: “The river path is particularly well used by a range of users including walkers, cyclists and runners.

“This investment by the council will greatly improve the towpath, opening up more of our natural heritage for communities and visitors to enjoy.”