Active Travel Update September 2023.

We now need to raise finance to begin the task of clearing land and constructing the path between Curry Rivel and Langport.

We are close to agreeing terms with landowners to allow a section of the path across their land. We are hoping to secure funding from the local council and are approaching several other organisations for grants

However, in order to secure matched funding we will need to raise a minimum of £50,000 from the community and other sources. All monies will go towards the cost of clearing the areas (which are very overgrown on two sections) and to construct a resilient path suitable for walking, cycling, prams and buggies, scooters, wheelchairs and motability.

For further information, to get involved please contact:

Tony Greenaway E mail activetravel@curryrivel.org.uk

2021

The existing busy stretch of the A378 between Curry Rivel and Langport is unsuitable for cyclists and pedestrians due to being very narrow in places and the volume and speed of traffic. Residents of Curry Rivel and surrounding villages rely on amenities in Langport and Huish Episcopi such as local shops and businesses, doctors, the library, the secondary school and Huish Leisure Centre, but the vast majority use their cars to travel there and back.

The need for an improved transport link is clear and the proposed project would bring a wide range of benefits to cyclists, pedestrians and the wider community, for example:

- an accessible, safe and traffic free path for cyclists and pedestrians

- Increased opportunities for exercise, contributing to a healthy lifestyle

- reduction in volume of traffic and dangerous emissions on this stretch of the A378

- Increased trade for local shops and businesses

a link to a possible future rail station at Langport

- a solution to the need for a safe route for students to get to the school, academy and leisure centre

The project is now being taken forward by a small group of volunteers who are investigating feasibility, possible routes for the path, and funding opportunities. As the grant has been awarded to the project on a matched funding basis, the group are now seeking financial and other support from a wide range of sources including councils, businesses and voluntary organisations, as well as the public.

Tony Greenaway

Email activetravel@curryrivel.org.uk

Mobile: 07563 900646