Work has begun on the latest phase of the ‘greenways’ project, which seeks to encourage more active travel across the borough, Wokingham Council has announced. 

The predominantly traffic-free routes are designed to make traveling to key destinations easier for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Contractors have started work on the latest section of the project, which is being completed in phases, to create a path leading from the north of Woosehill Meadows, near to the Reading Road underpass, and heading south through Woosehill Meadows to the Kingfisher Bridge. 

Work has also begun to construct a link from Smiths Walk to Heron Road, both of which make up part of a wider route linking Cantley Park to the north with Arborfield Cross to the west. 

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Executive member for environment, sport and leisure, Councillor Ian Shenton, said: “Our greenways represent a smart, versatile investment in green infrastructure to serve residents of all ages for generations to come.  

“We know there’s been some disruption while these works are carried out and we’d like to thank everyone for bearing with us while we work to finish as quickly as possible.” 

The work is expected to be completed by early August, with further works including the installation of a new bridge over the Emm Brook at the northern end of Woosehill Meadows expected in the autumn.  

When finished, the route will have a hard, permeable surface designed to make it accessible in all weathers, particularly for wheelchair users and prams as well as cyclists, skateboarders, roller blades and push scooters.  

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The next phase, starting later this summer, will be surfacing works at Coombes Lane and Coles Lane. In April next year, the bridge at the Coles Lane ford will be replaced to make crossing easier for pedestrians and people with impaired mobility.  

The final section will run from Heron Road to Bearwood Road via the woodland at Fox Hill, following the conclusion of discussions with landowners.  

This greenway is one of eight new pathways which the council is creating. The first, running from Arborfield to Finchampstead via the California Way through California County Park, opened in 2020.  

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The project also includes future plans for the River Loddon Long Distance Path, which will link the Thames Valley Path in Wargrave to the Blackwater Valley Path at Swallowfield.  

Council leader, Councillor Clive Jones, said: “As well as improving vehicle-free access for travelling to work, leisure or social appointments, which can help to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions, the greenways offer more chances to embrace an active lifestyle and enjoy the stress-relieving benefits of time spent in nature.”