Published Thursday 8 April 2021 at 16:59
Public Rights of Way in Darwen on Cranberry Lane have seen impressive improvements thanks to wider development work underway at Cranberry Fold.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has carried out the improvement work on Jacks Key and Clough Street footpaths in Darwen, thanks to funding from developer McDermott Homes, enabling easier walking and cycling for residents.
Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Director of Place, Martin Eden, said: “I’m so pleased to hear about these improvements at Cranberry Lane. The past 12 months have really shown the value of walking and cycling for residents’ activity and wellbeing, and work like this is essential to enable people to safely make the most of their neighbourhoods.”
Location: Jacks Key footpath
Water damage to the footpath meant it was difficult for residents to use the right of way.
The problems were caused by water collecting and coming onto the footpath uncontrolled, resulting in the water damage to the surface.
After the improvements work, the Jacks Key footpath now has an open ditch to direct the excess water, and water bars to protect the path from future erosion, and new direction signs have been installed.
Location: Clough Street footpath
Before the work on Clough Street footpath, severe water damage caused deep gouges in masked by flowing water from unknown source, and an old narrow gate was in disrepair. Our investigation found a collapsed culvert was partially responsible for the flowing water and a new culvert was installed by our drainage team, headed up by our Highways apprentice, Kathryn Tootell, with support from Paul Fletcher.
Once the water had stopped the huge gouges could be seen.
The new surface means residents will once again be able to enjoy the rights of way. New gates and direction arrows were installed as part of the improvements.
Parts of these improved footpaths are under a temporary closure while the development continues, but it’s a fantastic example of how developers are helping BwD Council to improve the borough for everyday walking and cycling.
Have your say on where we can improve paths, streets and roads in your neighbourhood – take this interactive survey: Consultation: Walking and cycling | Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.