New bridges installed at park in access upgrade

Two new bridges have been installed at a park in Derbyshire as part of a project aiming to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists.

Placed over the River Wye in Ashwood Park, Buxton, the new structures replace old bridges, including one which needed widening, said the Buxton Town Team community group.

It added that a third bridge, which had been closed for safety reasons for more than 20 years after a neighbouring tree collapsed, was also installed at the park during the summer.

The project has been funded by a £110,000 grant from Tarmac's Landfill Communities Fund and £200,000 from High Peak Borough Council.

Ashwood Park project leader for Buxton Town Team, Richard Lower, said it was "very satisfying" to see the new bridges put in place.

"It's been a long process in getting everybody on board, finding the funding and obtaining the necessary licences and permits," he said.

Lower said there were now plans to make further improvements to other areas of the park.

"There will be more seating and planting in the area where the old bandstand was," he added.

"We are also looking at putting in a walking and exercise route. For people who are in recovery, it is one of the few flat areas in Buxton."

Buxton Town Team said the bridge closest to the town centre and the Fairfield Road roundabout was a priority for widening, adding it was part of the group's walk and ride network.

Councillor Rob Baker, assistant executive member, said the bridges were a "welcome improvement" to the park.

"As we head into the darker months, it's more important than ever that people have opportunities to get outdoors, move more and stay active.

"That's why investing in our parks and green spaces remains a priority for the council.

"By working alongside local volunteers and organisations such as Buxton Town Team, we can continue to improve these spaces and make sure they remain places that communities can enjoy and take pride in."

A Tarmac spokesperon said: "We are proud to support community projects that make a real difference to local people.

"The Ashwood Park bridge improvements will restore important links through the park, improve accessibility and help ensure this much-loved community asset can be enjoyed by future generations."

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