Doncaster Council has issued a press release about the society's support and funding for a new bridge (PNFS bridge number 19). A handover event will be held at the Ledger Way entrance to Sandall Beat Woods at 1.45pm on 3rd December 2013. The press release is reproduced below.
Charity ‘bridges’ a funding gap as local authority creates a new footpath
A NEW footpath and bridge to a popular walkers’ spot in Doncaster has been opened with a cash boost from a walking charity.
The new right of way links Leger Way to one of the town’s most loved parks - Sandall Beat woods.
Previously people had to get their feet wet to negotiate a drainage channel that separates the woods from nearby suburbs, which was impassible after heavy rain.
The Peak and Northern Footpaths Society has stepped in to provide £1,720 of funding for a new bridge over the channel. In return for the cash to pay for the materials, Doncaster Council has dedicated the footpath as a new public right of way – the 589th in the borough.
Councillor Bill Mordue, Doncaster Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said he is delighted with this successful partnership working which comes hot on the heels of the Council empowering charities and community groups to come forward and make a difference – in light of severe budget cuts to come.
He said: “The Council is keen to support low-cost initiatives that increase opportunities for healthy activities like walking, jogging and running.
“The initiative of our Public Rights of Way Unit has resulted in an important addition to the rights of way network in Doncaster. This is a very popular route from the nearby suburbs in and out of Sandall Beat Woods.
“The Peak and Northern Footpaths Society was very supportive throughout the process. By working together it is the perfect example of what can be achieved by working with community groups in these tough economic times - what a successful outcome.”
John Broadbent, Chairman of the Peak and Northern Footpaths Society, said: “When our local volunteer was approached for help with funding we saw an opportunity to further our charitable aims and help the people of Doncaster at a time of severe budgetary constraints on the local authority.
“We were delighted to provide the funding for the bridge. We have an excellent working relationship with Council staff in the Public Rights of Way Unit. The people of Doncaster now have a fully accessible bridge by which to enjoy the area.”.
Sandall Beat is a popular local destination and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). At present there are over 500 kilometres of Public Footpaths, Bridleways and Byways on 588 separate routes across the borough, ranging in length from a few metres to over three kilometres and in character from completely urban to entirely rural. This latest one will be the 589th.
More details are here: http://www.doncaster.gov.uk/prow
A Public Right of Way is a Highway which may be used at all times by all members of the public. They include public footpaths, for use by walkers, public bridleways, for use by walkers, horse riders and pedal cyclists, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic.