Works to start on canal towpath resurfacing

Works are set to get underway early next month on the resurfacing of a section of canal towpath in Worcestershire, as part of wider works to improve walking and cycling routes in the county.

The works will start week beginning Monday 7^th February to resurface the section of the Worcester to Birmingham canal towpath, between Friesland Close and Blackpole Road.

Other walking and cycling improvements are programmed in for 2022, which include the resurfacing of the canal towpath in Kidderminster, footpath resurfacing and widening taking place at Arrow Valley Park in Redditch and a new footpath between Diglis Bridge and Duck Brook in Worcester, as part of the Emergency Active Travel Fund.

Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Transport and Highways, said: Improving walking and cycling routes in Worcestershire is one of the council's top priorities."

"We're keen to make improvements to all areas of the network and we know that our canal towpaths are extremely important to helping people get around the county.

"The Emergency Active Travel Fund consultation highlighted the need to make improvements to this section of canal towpath and we've acted on that feedback."

A new sealed surfaced footpath will be installed, and works will take place to cut back any overgrown vegetation. New signage will also be introduced and access on to the canal towpath will be improved.

Works are expected to last for up to seven weeks and are being carried out in liaison with Worcester City Council and Canal and River Trust.