Cumberland Council is pleased to share that works to improve the Howrah Footpath in Keswick were completed several weeks ago, with the upgraded route already being enjoyed by residents and visitors as an asset to the town.
Over the course of nine weeks, Cumberland Council’s highways team reconstructed around 900 metres of footpath, significantly improving safety, accessibility and overall user experience along this well-used route, which connects Keswick town centre with Portinscale. The improvements support walking, wheeling and cycling, making it easier for people to travel actively between communities.
The scheme also addressed longstanding drainage issues, helping to ensure the path remains in good condition for years to come.
The overall cost of the improvements was £117,000 including £50,000 of funding from the Lake District National Park Authority. Volunteers also supported the project with hedge work, helping to enhance the surrounding environment.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“We are grateful for the investment from the Lake District National Park Authority and proud to have worked in partnership to deliver these improvements. Projects like this reflect our commitment to improving lives and places, with walking, wheeling and cycling routes supporting health and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. By investing in our active travel routes, we are making it easier for people to stay active, enjoy their surroundings and travel safely between our communities.”
Carl Bradford, Area Ranger for Northern area of the Lake District National Authority, added:
“I am delighted to see the completion of the works on the Howrah Footpath. This popular route is an important link for the local community and visitors alike, and the improvements have now made the footpath more accessible and enjoyable for everyone to use.
“I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone who supported the scheme, including local partners, landowners, DEFRA’s Access For All funding, LDNPA volunteers and the highways team, whose work has helped deliver a lasting improvement for the area. The path has been made more resilient to water logging with camber and cross fall added where needed, with 600 tonnes of stone used to construct the new surface”
