National Highways has funded the £600,000 works to build a new off-road path alongside Foundry Road and High Lowca. The enhancements, delivered by Cumberland Council and Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, also created two new road crossings to help people access the route more safely.
Route 72 of the National Cycle Network, known as Hadrian’s Cycleway, running through the village, previously took people onto a road with some challenging junctions. There were also restrictive barriers on the traffic-free path going through Lowca Park, which prevented access for people using wheelchairs or pushing buggies.
The project team have also widened the path through the park, replaced inaccessible barriers and installed fresh signage.
Freda Rashdi, National Highways’ Head of Customer Journeys, said:
“These improvements help to give more people in the area the choice to use the route on short journeys and reduce traffic pressures on the A595 between Workington and Whitehaven, part of National Highways’ road network, and a vital link for local residents and businesses.
“We’re proud to use our Designated Funds to invest in the environment and communities living and working near our roads.”
The new upgrades will help make it easier for more people to walk, wheel or cycle to work, school and shops in the area, as well as for leisure.
The scheme is part of a UK-wide programme to improve the National Cycle Network. Since 2020, National Highways has invested more than £80 million to date into projects that boost connections and make it easier for people to walk, wheel or cycle separately from traffic.
Carole Patrick, National Cycle Network Director, said:
“At Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, we’re committed to improving the accessibility of National Cycle Network routes, so more people can access the benefits of walking, wheeling and cycling.
“This project offers local people a safer, more attractive route away from motorised traffic, helping them to get to work, school and local services.
“It also creates a better experience for challenge riders on this section of Hadrian’s Cycleway. That’s a boost for local tourism on this well-loved long-distance coast-to-coast route between the Cumberland coast and Tyneside.”
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“We are really pleased to see these improvements delivered in Lowca, helping to create a safer and more accessible route for everyone who wants to walk, wheel or cycle.
“This scheme builds on our wider work to improve connections along Hadrian’s Cycleway and supports safer everyday journeys to school, work and local services. By removing barriers and improving crossings, we are making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to get around.
“It is a great example of what can be achieved through partnership working, and we are grateful to National Highways and our delivery partners for helping bring these benefits to the local community.”
National Highways manages four Designated Funds to deliver benefits above and beyond building, maintaining and operating England’s motorways and some A roads.
The aim is to make a positive difference to people’s lives by protecting the environment and enhancing the landscape around roads, improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting communities and assisting innovation and research.
Find out more about the company’s Designated Funds programme on the National Highways Designated Funds webpage.
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