We’ve been working with local volunteer group, Back the Track to transform the McClean Way in Walsall. With planning permission secured, much-needed work is set to begin on the disused railway line to improve the route for everyone.
Councillor, Rose Martin (centre) with Clare Maltby (centre right), joined by contractors, National Highways and Back the Track. Credit: Mark Radford/Sustrans
Connecting people to nature
Once a railway line, the McClean Way, has been used by people walking and cycling for some time, but it’s about to become a much safer and more accessible greenway for all.
The improvements to the route will also contribute to the expansion of the National Cycle Network, serving to connect Pelsall and Brownhills.
We will planting along to route to connect people to nature and to give the local biodiversity a boost.
What will the improvements look like?
The work is likely to be delivered in stages.
The first phase of the scheme will create a new three-metre-wide sealed surface along around a mile-long stretch from Station Road to Ryders Hayes Park.
Ditches will be created to manage the areas of the path which suffer from water overflowing.
The route will also benefit from improved access to enhance inclusivity.
Further planned phases will be subject to funding availability.
Sustrans has been working closely with Back The Track volunteers to develop the McClean Way. Credit: Mark Radford/Sustrans
Heritage meets connectivity
Named after John Robinson McClean, a visionary in the development of the South Staffordshire Railway, the greenway has been cherished by the community since its opening as an unsurfaced greenway in 2017.
The route’s rich history and local importance make its upgrade a proud moment for both Sustrans and its partners.
The upgrade wouldn’t be possible without the tireless work of local volunteers from the Back the Track group, who have maintained the greenway over the years.
Clare Maltby, Sustrans’ England Director for the Midlands and East, said:
“This project highlights the power of collaboration and community.
"With these upgrades, we are creating a beautiful, fully accessible greenway that connects communities, celebrates heritage, and encourages sustainable travel.
"We're thrilled to see the McClean Way’s transformation begin."
The current surface is muddy and uneven with limited access points. Credit: Mark Radford/Sustrans
A collaborative effort
Local businesses have also stepped up to support the project.
Rails Wood Tractors have provided a compound area to aid construction.
Local councillors have also been involved in the process after planning permission was secured in September 2024 from Walsall Council.
The scheme has been funded National Highways and the Active Travel England who have provided around £1.75m.
Fred Rashdi, Head of Customer Journeys at National Highways, said:
“The McClean Way will provide a safe, scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians.
"We are delighted to support this excellent scheme, which promotes sustainable and healthy travel.”
With thanks to our partners at National Highways and Active Travel England and from Walsall Council.
Local firm Crown Highways have been appointed to carry out the improvements. Credit: Mark Radford/Sustrans
What’s next?
Local contractor, Crown Highways will deliver the upgrades by March 2025.
To ensure construction can proceed safely, there will be restrictions between Station Road and Ryders Hayes Park with a short period of closure.
Public Rights of Way crossings will remain open and accessible throughout the works.
While this phase is fully funded, completing the entire route depends on securing additional resources.
However, once completed, the full route would provide an extra three miles of continuous, safe and direct off-road path between Pelsall and Brownhills - helping to connect residents to schools, businesses, amenities and community facilities.
We’ve been working with local volunteer group, Back the Track to transform the McClean Way in Walsall. Credit: Mark Radford/Sustrans
Paths for Everyone
In 2018 we took an honest look at the condition of the National Cycle Network and have been delivering improvements through our Paths for Everyone programme in response.
As custodians of the National Cycle Network, we are dependent on the support of others to make these improvements to this vital infrastructure, which passes within one mile of around half of the UK population.
It provides a vital backbone to the country, connecting communities to each other and helping neighbourhoods come to life.
Find out more about our plans to improve the National Cycle Network and see work in progress near you.
