Background

The improvements to the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) in west Latchford, between Wilderspool Causeway and Greenall's Avenue is now complete and the path was opened to the public in May 2023.

Scheme description

The works were carried out by Tarmac Ltd using several local subcontractors, and it was project managed by engineers from Warrington Council Environment and Transport Department. The scheme was funded by the Warrington Town Deal programme.

The original route between Wilderspool Causeway and Greenall's Avenue had narrowed over the years by overgrown trees and bushes and had a poor uneven surface. In winter and after heavy rain the path was an unpleasant experience for most users, especially for people on bikes. There are some steeper sections and pinch points which also made it difficult to use. There were also two redundant access barriers which restricted access for people in wheelchairs, mobility scooters and families using prams and pushchairs.

The new path is now wider (up to 3.5 metres) with an innovative surface made from recycled vehicle tyres which is both weather resistant and hard wearing. The project used over 3,000 recycled car tyres preventing 66,729kgs of carbon dioxide being discharged into the atmosphere.

The path is also more open with the removal of selected diseased and damaged trees together with overgrown vegetation. This allows more natural light onto the path creating a better and a more secure experience for users. The accumulation of years of fly tipping has also been removed.

The old fencing fronting the Manchester Ship canal has been replaced and the access barriers have been removed.

Images of completed scheme

We would welcome your feedback on this project. Please send to  [email protected]