A WALKWAY stretching from Sturminster Newton to the Blandford Forum area is set to be expanded and better connected.
Expansions of the North Dorset Trailway, a footpath on the former Somerset & Dorset Railway line, are among proposals in Dorset Council’s newly-published draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) 2026–2036.
In the plan, the trailway is highlighted as a case study, recognising the benefits it already brings to communities, providing a largely traffic-free corridor for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, as well as people using mobility aids, boosting exercise, health and wellbeing.
The implementation plan identifies proposed extensions, including from Stalbridge north to Henstridge and south to Sturminster Newton, together with longer-term links from Spetisbury to Sturminster Marshall and onwards to Corfe Mullen. I
Timescales for the additions run from 2027 to 2034, with the North Dorset Trailway Network (NDTN) named alongside Dorset Council and private landowners as partners in the project.
Joe Hickish, chair of the NDTN, said: “It is tremendously encouraging to see the North Dorset Trailway recognised in this important plan, not only for what it provides today but for what it could become in the future.
“The Trailway is a wonderful asset for North Dorset – somewhere to walk, cycle, ride, wheel, exercise, enjoy nature or simply get from one community to another away from busy roads. Extending those connections would allow many more people to benefit.
“NDTN is a charity and has long championed the protection, improvement and extension of the Trailway, and we hope local people will support us in helping to make that vision a reality.”
The publication of the plan comes at an exciting time for NDTN – which has recently introduced a new logo and leaflet and QR signage – which works tirelessly to extend the Trailway and encourage more people to get involved in its future.
Membership costs £10 per household per year, with lifetime membership available for £100.
The draft ROWIP is currently open for public consultation until October 12, giving residents an opportunity to have their say on the future of Dorset’s rights of way network.
I note you are looking at this pathway for the elderly is this not dangerous to also allow cyclist who might cycle through at a fast rate . A lot of elderly people like myself are hearing impairedand don’t hear bicycle bells ringing for you to move . Would it not be safer for them to be on the road . Now I bet I upset a fair few but I’m just asking as I have encountered it many times .
They should also complete the path/cycleway along the former railway line between Maiden Newton and Bridport.
Wow. Just love this happening. And to see it will reach me in Henstridge. 😁😁😁😁😁