Improvement to Tetsworth footpath

OXFORDSHIRE County Council?s Countryside Service has replaced an unsafe boardwalk and stile leading to a local events venue with new improved structures that provide access for all.

A boardwalk on a footpath from Tetsworth to a nearby field which hosts community events such as car boot sales had deteriorated to the extent that it was unsafe to use. The footpath connects The Green, High Street and the Red Lion pub in Tetsworth and leads towards Great Haseley.

The substantially improved design of the new boardwalk utilises a combination of recycled plastic and wood to provide strength and durability.

The old stile leading into the field has also been replaced with a gate, in agreement with the landowner.

The improvements allow access for a greater range of users, including those with mobility problems, wheelchairs and pushchairs.

HUGE IMPROVEMENT

Jon Beale, Field Officer for Oxfordshire County Council said: ?The new boardwalk is a huge improvement on the former access arrangements that were in place. We are very pleased with the innovative design of the structure that will provide all local residents with access to an important community resource.?

Following a suggestion that Great Crested Newts were present in the pond underneath the boardwalk, an ecologist was brought in to assess the situation and make recommendations in order that the work did not harm these protected species.

PHOTOS: The boardwalk before and after the improvement work.