Councillors to review Keswick to Threlkeld trail extension plans in Workington
Update to cover benefits and funding of proposed bridleway
Cumberland Council's strategic board for highways and transport will meet on Thursday, 16th July at Allerdale House in Workington to discuss the proposed extension to the Keswick to Threlkeld Trail, known as the K2T extension.
This new extension aims to enhance connectivity between communities, improve road safety, and provide economic and health benefits in the region.
Set to be developed as a bridleway, the K2T extension will be integrated into the public rights of way network.
Funding and Structural Plans
The capital work for the K2T extension will be funded by the Borderlands Growth Deal and National Highways.
While the Lake District National Park Authority will maintain the path surface, Cumberland Council may be responsible for maintaining two bridges associated with the extension.
The K2T extension plans to avoid the at-grade crossings of the A66 and Station Road, promoting safer travel.
A bridge over the Glenderamackin River, to be renovated with Borderlands funds, might be transferred to council ownership following refurbishment.
Additionally, a new bridge over Station Road on the B5322 is to be designed and adopted by Cumberland Council, ensuring it meets long-term operational standards and a minimum 120-year design life.
The existing Keswick to Threlkeld Trail, reopened in 2020, sees approximately 285,000 annual visitors engaging in walking, running, cycling, or using wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The extension aims to build on this success, enhancing the accessibility and usability of the area.
The council meeting will determine the operational and maintenance strategies for the future of the trail's extension, including provisions for highway safety improvements.