Grant of £400,000 to improve access to popular trail in Doncaster

Thanks to a £400,000 grant from the Department of Transport, Doncaster Council will be laying a new bound surface and will improve the drainage along the popular route.

It will help people in wheelchairs or mobility scooters access the path, as well as those riding a bike, on a horse, or pushing a pram.

The partners in the scheme have now launched an online consultation to hear from local people about improvements they would like to see along the path.

People are invited to give their opinion on improvements that could be added to the trail, such as better signage, seating, planting and artwork.

The partners also want to know about any accessibility issues that currently prevent people from using this section of the Trans Pennine Trail.

Coun Joe Blackham, council cabinet member for highways, street scene and trading services, said: “The Trans Pennine Trail is a popular route and important asset connecting residents to green space across the borough.

“This scheme will enhance the stretch between Bentley and Toll Bar to enable more active travel journeys on foot and by cycle.

“As part of the planned improvements, a new sealed surface will be laid so it can be used throughout the year by people taking a walk, using their bike or riding a horse.

“The works also alleviate drainage issues seen at the A19 underpass.

“I urge people to have their say about the scheme and particularly local residents as we want to hear their views about other potential infrastructure improvements in the Bentley area.

“We are committed to improving and creating new walking and cycling routes to encourage active travel right.”

Sarah Bradbury, Sustrans senior project officer in Yorkshire said: “These improvements will really help to make the path more accessible to people in wheelchairs or mobility scooters and well as prams, larger bicycles or horses.”

The consultation runs until September 13 - visit sustrans.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/bentley to have your say.