Long-lost railway line revived as new key sections open up

Somerset's new traffic-free route has been extended following the completion of another long stretch of the scheme. Somerset Council joined residents and volunteers to celebrate the opening of another two sections of the Strawberry Line, a traffic-free greenway running through the county.

On November 8, representatives from the council joined volunteers for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally opening the Dulcote Extension and the West Shepton Link. The Dulcote Extension is an 800m stretch from Dulcote Quarry to Churchill Batch Lane.

The West Shepton Link runs from Hitchin Lane to Ridge Road, a 1.3km stretch that includes a 15ft-long bridge that was craned into place last month and allows path users to safely cross the B3136. The Strawberry Line is a traffic-free path reaching from the Mendips to the sea.

READ MORE: Robbie Williams intimate gig organisers reveal how they got star to play

READ MORE: 'Gentrified' UK train station cafe charging £12 for bread sparks fury among locals

The path is a unique and pioneering multi-partnership project between, charities, volunteers, contractors, community groups, councils, Historic Railways Estate and private landowners. Somerset Council, and before, Mendip Council, has helped the project by providing guidance and investment where possible.

Construction was supervised by volunteer led charitable organisation Greenways and Cycle routes and work carried out by local contractors MP and KM Golding. The Strawberry Line volunteers together with volunteers from the neighbouring Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels project have provided key support and helped with clearance and construction on the project through regular weekly volunteer sessions and at Greenways workcamps.

This has included supporting with all aspects of the path, from land access negotiations, vegetation clearing and preparatory works ahead of construction, to vegetation planting, creating local walking routes, managing the local ecology and maintaining the path itself. Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport and Waste, said: "The grand opening event really showcases the importance of the local community and volunteers.

"Thank you, your efforts have transformed the disused railway into a vibrant pathway for everyone to use. This triumph gives more people the opportunity to leave their cars at home and get into active travel – which is great for health, wellbeing and the environment.”

The converted railway line now provides a link for walkers, cyclists and horse riders through wonderful Somerset country. The Strawberry Line project encourages people out of cars, reducing congestion and pollution, while promoting active travel and a healthy lifestyle. It also supports local businesses along the route too, helping to achieve a number of the council’s key priorities.

Work is also progressing on further sections of the Strawberry Line and Somerset Circle that will the traffic free network continue to grow in coming years.