11 Mar New path will improve access for all to a Harlow beauty spot
Construction works have started on creating a new accessible pathway linking Todd Brook to Netteswell Pond.
A new 800m path which will be accessible to all will replace a current muddy and uneven route. The new path will run alongside Todd Brook behind Stony Wood and St Mark’s School connecting to an existing cycle track along Second Avenue. Currently the route is not accessible all year round particularly to residents with disabilities.
Accessibility improvements around local beauty spot – Netteswell Pond – will also be made with a new path constructed around part of the pond and resurfacing works which will all link to two fully accessible fishing platforms.
The works are expected to take around three weeks.
Councillor Danny Purton, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “This project will provide access for all abilities, including wheelchairs, mobility scooters and buggies throughout the year. The project will include the installation of a large mobility kissing gate with RADAR key for wheelchair access plus vehicle access gate for maintenance for grass cutting; this will deter motorbikes and horse riding access along the newly laid surface.
“The new path will connect two popular walking and visitor areas and the improvements will complement some of the works already undertaken in recent years to the much loved Netteswell Pond.
“COVID lockdowns have seen more people and families getting out and about and these improvements will provide greater access for all helping to improve people’s mental health and wellbeing and provide a pleasant walking route as an alternative to walking alongside a busy Second Avenue.”
