NEW signposts along an existing borough woodland trail could encourage more people to enjoy being outdoors.
Loddon Valley Ramblers (LVR) has completed signposting the Lower Earley Green Corridor Trail.
The three and a half mile (mostly) traffic-free route runs across the whole of Lower Earley, from Loddon Bridge to Shinfield Road.
Much of the route is in woodland or parkland, providing a pleasant walking experience, and with public transport links at both ends of the trail, as well as in the middle, the path lends itself to both leisure and active travel use.
Steve Vale, footpath officer from Loddon Valley Ramblers, said: “It’s been in existence for some time, but only some locals knew about and used it.
“Waymarking it will open it up to a much wider group.
“It is an attractive walk in itself, but may also encourage active travel, with its links to local bus routes”.
Signposting has been made possible by a grant from Earley Town Council and with the active support from the Earley Environment Group (EEG).
Bob Collis, Chair of Earley Environmental Group, said: “The Loddon Valley Ramblers’ excellent new trail forms a natural route along the length of the Lower Earley Green Corridor, connecting people and wildlife by linking the local green spaces and woodlands.
“Well done the Ramblers.”
The route is marked with roundels and black waymarker posts installed by LVR and EEG volunteers, with permission to signpost across their land given by Wokingham Borough Council, Reading University and the managers of Barn Croft Drive.
The route is off-road, apart from a short stretch at the junction of Beeston Way, Lower Earley Way and Cutbush Lane (not far from Asda).
It goes through woods, meadows and parkland, and takes in some of Lower Earley’s more attractive areas such Pearman’s Copse, Swallow’s Meadow, Wood of Eagles and the Loddon-side path from Sindlesham to Loddon Bridge.
Councillor Al Neal, Chair of Earley Town Council, said: “Congratulations to the voluntary groups who have led this project and brought it to a successful conclusion.
“I very much look forward to walking the route.”
From the end of the month, leaflets can be found in local libraries, doctors’ surgeries, and council offices, with information also available at: lvra.org.uk and earleyenvironmentalgroup.co.uk
