Newport cycle route work nears finishing line
A cycle path linking Shropshire and Staffordshire which had lain unfinished for a number of years is set to finally be completed.
Work started on the £300,000 scheme to finish the 1.8-mile uncompleted section of the 14-mile route to Stafford, between Newport and Gnosall, in September.
It is hoped the path will now be finished later this month as work is ahead of schedule.
The path had remained unfinished for several years due to funding problems. But, following complaints from cyclists and walkers on both sides of the track, Staffordshire County Council stumped up the cash to finish the project last year. The route follows the old Stafford to Shrewsbury railway line to create Millennium Way – part of national cycle network 55.
Telford & Wrekin Councillor Eric Carter, member for Newport East, said: "I am told the national cycle route is now ahead of schedule, which is great news and weather permitting will be opened some time in January. We also hope to have an official opening ceremony of the 14-mile route.
"We have also agreed with the right of way officer a sign that gives the distances. When we join at the Newport end there will be a sign giving you the distances between the places and a sign reminding people to follow the Countryside Code.
"We have also received feedback that there should be bins along the route so they will also be installed.
