A further section of the New River shared path has been built in Broxbourne and is open to the public.
Broxbourne Borough Council has been working in collaboration with the Broxbourne School as the land owners, to construct a new shared path adjacent to the school playing fields and along the route of the New River path, to improve security and access for cyclists and walkers.
Connecting Cozens Lane West with Wormley playing fields, the existing footpath has been cleared and increased in width to accommodate cyclists as well as pedestrians. A new boundary fence has also been erected to ensure the playing fields are secure. The positive outcome of this project has been achieved through collaborative working between the Council and Broxbourne School, to provide safe access for future generations to come.
It is hoped that the work will form, subject to available funding, part of a new shared path along the full length of the New River through the heart of the Borough, from the southern boundary in Waltham Cross, all the way to Rye House railway station in the northern boundary. Once complete, the new shared path will provide sustainable transport connections to schools, public and open spaces within the Borough and employment and residential areas.
Cllr David Holliday, Cabinet Member for Sustainability, said: “Following the upgrade to the path running from Broxbourne station along the river toward Hoddesdon, this second section of the New River shared path will provide an easier, safer and a more sustainable route for members of the public to walk or cycle around the Borough, whether it’s as part of their commute, accessing shops and services or for leisure purposes. The Council and Broxbourne School have collaborated together on this project to provide improved security and access for residents as well as delivering a sustainable transport option for the future.”
Paula Humphreys, Head Teacher of Broxbourne School, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Broxbourne Borough Council as they have planned and completed improvement works to the permissive path along the eastern edge of the school’s playing field. We have been able to preserve a useful link between Cozens Lane West and Wormley playing fields while at the same time improving security and enhancing the safety of our children playing sport on the playing field”.
For further information on the New River shared path, please visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk.