Improvements to River Gipping Tow Path accessibility at Bramford, including new sections of surfaced path and improvements to existing tracks to create a circular route that is fully accessible to those with limited mobility including a river access location.

Scope of the Project

This project will create new path sections restoring the original line of the Gipping Tow Path surfaced with material suitable to enable a level route accessible to all and DDA compliant.  This will form a circular route of approximately 1.2km with potential to link into National Cycle Route 51 and form part of any future Bramford to Ipswich cycle track.

Aim of the Project

This project complements and dovetails in with the 'River for All' programme of Green Infrastructure works submitted by Ipswich Borough Council.  It aims to enable enjoyment of the countryside by a greater proportion of the community by being DDA compliant and accessible to those with limited mobility, users of mobility scotters, wheelchairs and prams.  In addition, it will link into existing improved surface route connecting to the main end of Bramford village and also to Sproughton.  The success of this project will be measurable by monitoring the increase in use of the path through existing monitoring equipment.

Outcome of the Project

Anticipated 10% (5000 people) increase in users from local residents and visitors.

Delivers enhancements to the historic environment with the restoration of the River Gipping Tow Path.

Improvement 1.145km of strategic access route.

Restoration of Gipping towpath route.

Status

Funding for 2009/10: £24,940

IDP Package: Green Infrastructure

Status as at 31 December 2009:

• Groundwork (path creation and resurfacing) 90% complete.

Status as at 31 March 2010:

• Groundwork complete.
• Ten percent of the interpretation element complete.
• Anecdotal evidence from site rangers indicate a very significant increase in visitors using the new 'all weather' footpath route.

Status as at May 2010:

• Work (path creation and resurfacing) is now fully complete but earlier delays due to the extreme winter weather have caused a knock-on delay to the publicity activity. Evidence suggests the works have already led to a significant increase in usage.