A NEW footpath extension, that will improve safety on a busy road in The Ham, has been given the go-ahead after receiving sufficient funding.
Both the Community Area Transport Group (CATG) and Wiltshire Council’s Substantive Highway Scheme will provide the funds needed for the new footpath.
Now that the extension has received funding, the proposal will be considered by Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways for final approval.
Earlier this year, Councillor for Westbury North, David Jenkins, launched a campaign to extend the existing footpath opposite The Ham cottages, describing the current situation as ‘hazardous’ due to residents being forced to walk along a grass verge through nettles and tall grass, once the footpath comes to an end.
Cllr Jenkins said, “I’m delighted that it has been approved, especially when you consider the state of the existing grass verge which is slippery when wet. It’s also an uneven surface, with potholes in places and represents a potential hazard to those residents in the community that use it, whether for walking to the bus stop or for leisure purposes such as taking their dogs for a walk or just walking and being close to The Ham road increases the danger.”
“Residents have been asking me for some time if the footpath to the bus stop could be extended to help them, especially if they are elderly or they are families.
“It’s great now, thanks to contributions from Wiltshire Council and the CATG, which is part of the Westbury Area Board, that it’s proceeding.”
