Work is underway to create a new footpath along the Baildon side of the River Aire, below the Higher Coach Road estate. It is already a well-used 'desire path'. (I only recently learned there is a name for such things - illicit paths worn by many feet choosing to go the same way, as a shortcut or, as here, a route used by walkers to reach Roberts Park 'the back way'.) The local residents' group successfully applied for 'pocket park funding' and they aim to create a nature trail (see HERE) and to plant a wildflower meadow. It is at present land left rough, as it forms a flood plain for the river, to protect nearby houses. It can be a bit muddy, especially on the western side, so the new path should make it rather nicer to walk there, as well as looking more cared for. The steps will connect it with an existing path that crosses the river over a footbridge.
The two photos were taken from the exact same spot, looking in either direction.
Lets hope that they've also got funding for upkeep and litter-picking in the new pocket park. The best of these can be a wonderful local amenity, elsewhere I've seen them become unsightly eyesores. It'll be interesting to see how the work progresses.
ReplyDeleteWhat a difference it will make!
ReplyDeleteAs we have seen increasingly often, the river Aire always has the last word. It will flood and the new path may be damaged.
ReplyDeleteThe construction vehicles have made clear how muddy the area can be, as they moved along beside the project. Hope you bring us back again to see it when finished!
ReplyDeleteThat's quite a job.
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