Posted on Wednesday 12th February 2025
The completed footbridge and boardwalk on Public Footpath No. 46 between Warslow and Stoneyfold Lane.
A popular Peak District footpath has been given a much-needed upgrade, thanks to a brand-new footbridge built from recycled materials.
This was part of wider works carried out by Staffordshire County Council, the Peak District National Park Authority and local landowners to improve Public Footpath No. 46 between Warslow and Stoneyfold Lane.
Improvements included restoring two footpaths that had become difficult to cross, installing new steps, and adding gates and signposts to better guide walkers along the route.
The final stage of the work saw the complete rebuild of an old, deteriorating bridge, which had rotting boardwalks and was being swallowed by overgrown ferns.
Thanks to more than £11,000 in funding from Staffordshire County Council, the bridge has been completely reconstructed from recycled plastic, making it more durable and environmentally friendly.
The new steps and boardwalks were funded by DEFRA’s Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) scheme and local landowners, Amy and John Wardman, built a culvert to ease flooding further along the footpath.
These overall improvements have made the scenic route more accessible for walkers, ensuring it can be enjoyed for years to come.
Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
"This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through collaboration. Together with the Peak District National Park Authority and local landowners, we’ve made a real difference for walkers in this beautiful part of the countryside.
"With this new bridge in place, alongside other improvements, the access is greatly improved. Walkers can now enjoy a stunning circular route from the Townhead end of Warslow, passing through hay meadows and pastures with wide-ranging views."
To find out more about how Staffordshire County Council manages more than 4,500 of publically accessible footpaths and bridleways, visit Footpaths and bridleways - Staffordshire County Council.