Posted on 4th Jul
The Trent Vale Trail, a transformative rural connectivity project led by volunteer-run charity Friends of Trent Vale Trail (FoTVT), is now complete.
More than £700,000 has been raised by the charity to make the 15-mile trail, linking Newark to the villages of Winthorpe, Collingham, Besthorpe, Girton, and South Clifton possible.
The project’s focus was to enhance access to work, social, and leisure opportunities for residents by connecting rural communities through a safe, and environmentally-sustainable active travel route.
A total of 12 volunteers of the FoTVT led the project, working to raise the money to develop the trail for the benefit of local communities.
They worked with landowners and key partners, such as the Newark Sustrans Volunteers, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Gusto Homes, Girton Sailing Club, local councils, and other local community groups and organisations.
Newark and Sherwood District Council awarded £287,000 in funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund, as well as the Newark and Sherwood Community Grant Scheme across recent years. In addition, The Garfield Weston Foundation provided funding for construction of the final section.
The trail is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all, including walkers, cyclists, equestrians, and users of mobility aids.
The latest phase of works included surface upgrades; diversions and extensions of public footpaths to complete the route; and the installation of fencing and gates to accommodate landowner requirements and ensure safe passage.
Coun Claire Penny, portfolio holder for Sustainable Economic Development at the district council, said: “We are pleased to support the Friends of Trent Vale Trail in completing this fantastic project through UK Government funding. The trail not only promotes active travel and wellbeing, but also strengthens the social and economic fabric of our rural communities through improved connectivity. This investment reflects our commitment to sustainable economic development and inclusive access for all.”
John Ford, of Friends of Trent Vale Trail, said: “The FoTVT trustees and volunteers are excited that our vision of safe active travel between Newark and South Clifton has been delivered. The group have worked hard to secure the funding to complete the Trent Vale Trail.
“The FoTVT team includes walking, cycling and horse-riding expertise and they have worked hard to make the trail accessible to residents and visitors of all ages and abilities.”
Go to www.trentvaletrail.org
