Essex Bridleways Association celebrated the opening of their new bridleway in glorious sunshine.

Horse riders, cyclists and walkers came out to enjoy the 6 mile stretch of new bridleway.

“The project has really improved the understanding between different types of user”, said applicant, Helen Chester, for whom education about different users’ needs was a key part of her bid.

But it wasn’t all plain sailing and the strong partnership was put to the test when initial concerns about the proposal led to a public meeting.

“There was a room full of people against the project,” explains Helen. “I reassured people that the routes, through P4C, would be open to all because we could improve the surface.

But most importantly, people could enjoy them: as of right - permanently.

By the end of the meeting, there was a roomful of people in favour. That was a fantastic feeling!”

Claire Mennin, the Country Parks Area Manager and representative of the landowner at Weald says,
“The route’s been getting fantastic feedback especially from our mobility scooter users now the autumnal weather has started to arrive.”