Local families tried out improvements to the Trans Pennine Trail between Worsbrough and Silkstone Common in Barnsley, at our free half term event for all ages and abilities.
Local families tried out improvements to the Trans Pennine Trail between Worsbrough and Silkstone Common in Barnsley, at our free half-term event for all ages and abilities.
A pedal-powered smoothie bike and bubble machine were all part of the family event on the popular traffic-free path at Dodworth.
Improvements to the path
The four-mile section features a wider, more flexible surface made from the recycled material Flexipave.
And changes have been made to allow access for wheelchair users, adapted cycles and horse riders.
Barnsley Council delivered the improvement works with the Trans Pennine Trail.
They're part of our national programme, funded by the Department of Transport, to enhance the National Cycle Network.
More accessible for everyone
Sarah Bradbury, our senior project officer and event organiser in Barnsley, said:
"It was great to see so many people enjoying the improvements on the Trans Pennine Trail between Worsbrough and Silkstone Common.
"It’s now much easier for everyone to use this section of the trail whether using a wheelchair, pushing a pushchair, on a bike, or riding a horse."
Connecting places and people
Councillor James Higginbottom, Barnsley Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said:
"We’ll always be extremely proud of the Trans Pennine Trail in Barnsley, where its story began and where its national team is still based.
"Walking, running and cycling more helps you to be healthier and it’s better for the environment.
"We’re working hard to make sure our borough will have different ways of connecting our places and people.
"These latest improvements to the Trans Pennine Trail make it even easier for more people to get out and enjoy the outdoors and physical activity."
About the Trans Pennine Trail
The trail is busier than ever due to the improvements, and the covid pandemic.
In addition to the activities on offer, local officers will promote considerate use of the trail.
There will be information on sharing the path with other users and a poster competition for children to design a ‘share with care’ sign for the trail.
The team will be giving out bike bells to the first 20 people at each event that come by bike.
A tremendous difference made to the route
Mandy Loach, Trans Pennine Trail Lead Officer, said:
"These works have made a tremendous difference to this section of the trail and we’ve had some fantastic feedback.
"It’s great to be invited to share this event and engage with the local users, so please come along and say hello."
Find out more about our work to create a network of paths for everyone.
