WALKERS and cyclists will be able to travel between Malmesbury and a new housing development more safely with the opening of a new footpath.

The Malmesbury to Cowbridge footpath will link the new homes to the south of Malmesbury to the town centre with a safe route that follows the River Avon.

An opening ceremony, attended by councillors, residents and contributors to the project’s construction, was held last week.

Cllr Budgen said: “This project was a great example of the community, councils and other organisations working together in a co-operative and determined partnership to achieve a long awaited addition to local facilities.

“It will provide a safer route between the town and Cowbridge than the narrow pavement alongside the B4042 that hitherto was the sole pedestrian option.”

“There were many problems, many of them unforeseen, in achieving the finished project.

“This is the first stage of the footpath/cycle way concept and improvements to this first phase will gradually be introduce subject to the necessary funding being forthcoming.”