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This page is a news release published by Wrexham County Borough Council.
Content Author: pressoffice@wrexham.gov.uk

11 May 2005

Marchwiel Footpath Project

Marchwiel Environment Group (MEG) is involved in a new project to improve the public rights of way network in their community.

The project aims to boost the confidence of local people to begin walking their local footpaths by providing maps and guidance information leaflets, making them easier to find and to use.

Jude Greenwood, MEG secretary said:

"The idea for the project came from details in the press about what had been achieved by a scheme in Holt, so we invited Wrexham Council's Rights of Way Office to a meeting to tell us how it worked. We decided that it was worth pursuing and fortunately Wrexham has found the money to support it."

Mr Geoff Hughes headed members of the group in surveying the footpaths in the Marchwiel area, which stretches from Lower Bedwell Bridge to to Middle Sontley. They checked the condition of stiles, signs, bridges and gates and carried out minor jobs like trimming back brambles. Bigger problems found have been reported to the rights of way team to deal with.

Parks, Countryside and Rights of Way Assistant Manager, John Marchant said:

"I was pleased with Marchwiel Environment Group's initiative and looked forward to working with them. Wrexham Council doesn't have the resources to be able to improve every footpath within the County Borough, so the group's efforts are very much appreciated. I'd like to hear from other groups or community councils willing to enter into such a partnership."

Jude explained that when the paths were improved, different routes would be suggested to attract both the beginner and the hardened walker. "Discovery walks" would be organised and leaflets would be designed to show people where the paths are and also give general guidance information on safety and the countryside code

"We also hope to produce a footpath map to display on the village notice board. The best way to keep the paths clear once all this work has been done is to get lots of people using them."

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