More than a mile of new bridleway is now open joining up the village of Fenstanton with the Busway and towns and villages beyond.
The Fen path is well used locally but was previously a muddy and rutted hardcore-based track. The works have made the route much more accessible with a 3m wide smooth path for cyclists and pedestrians with mown strips of land on either side which provide additional space for horse riders.
The bridleway is secured with lockable bollards to stop unauthorised access and help ensure user safety whilst still allowing farmers and landowners access when needed.
Paul Kent, Chair of Fenstanton Parish Council said: “The transformation of the old muddy track into a safe and attractive full bridleway is a great asset for our village and has been a major community endeavour.
"The new bridleway is already being used by a wide range of people including parents with buggies, runners, dog walkers and by children cycling to and from Swavesey Village College. No sooner was the last bit of work complete then there were two mobility scooter users travelling along the path heading for the Busway and St Ives and we’ve also heard from delighted wheelchair users who are now able to use The Fen path and enjoy the surrounding countryside.”
Works on the path took six weeks and cost £200,000. £5,000 was contributed by Fenstanton Parish Council who will also take on a role in maintaining the path alongside Cambridgeshire County Council.