16 Feb County Council saves popular footpath

Riverbank footpath repaired by Gloucestershire County Council

The footpath, which runs alongside the Isbourne River from Castle Street to Broadway Road in Winchcombe, was under threat as erosion had begun to eat away at the line of the path.
The path connects several routes, including the Cotswold Way, Wardens Way, Winchcombe Way and Gloucestershire Way, and is popular in the community.
The county council has now reinstated the washed away banks using large stones as rock armour for the riverbank in this area.
In addition, the path has been resurfaced and reopened for the public to use following the work.
This work will provide a long-term solution to the erosion issue at this section of the river and allow the footpath to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Councillor David Gray, cabinet member responsible for the environment at Gloucestershire County Council, said:

“I am delighted that this popular riverside work has been safeguarded for the future as a result of the council’s work.
I would like to thank the public for their patience while the footpath was closed to allow the work to take place, and hope they enjoy being able to walk along the river in the glorious Gloucestershire countryside once again.”

Mr Robert Talbot, from Winchcombe Walkers are Welcome, said:

“Winchcombe Walkers are Welcome are grateful to Gloucestershire County Council for restoring the popular Riverside Path back to its former glory. After raising the funding in 2014 to create the Riverside Path we have been monitoring the erosion for four years and will continue to oversee the monthly maintenance by volunteers so users can enjoy this path for many years to come.”