More than £10k of improvements are being carried out to a path through 'an oasis of nature' in Weymouth, which is hoped to bring more people to the site.
The work to improve the surface of the public right of way at the RSPB nature reserve at Radipole - which has been funded by a grant of £11,400 obtained by South Dorset Ramblers - is progressing well and should be completed shortly.
A spokesperson for the South Dorset Ramblers said: "The reserve is an oasis of wildlife in the heart of Weymouth, and we believe the improvement works will enable more people, both residents and holidaymakers, to enjoy its delights and to meet nature.
"The project will improve access to one of Weymouth’s unique and hidden treasures. Also, making the path more accessible throughout the year should benefit nearby residents at Westham and Southill and will provide links to the extensive network of paths alongside the River Wey and on the South Dorset Ridgeway."
The public right of way starts at the RSPB Discovery Centre, in the Swannery Car Park and runs through to Kingfisher Bridge. Other paths run off this to other parts of the reserve. The funding has been obtained by South Dorset Ramblers with thanks to the East Berkshire Ramblers Endowment Fund.
The initial idea was suggested by RSPB volunteer Dave Morphew and the proposal was produced by South Dorset Ramblers member David Northam and supported by South Dorset Ramblers, RSPB Weymouth and Dorset Council.
The surface improvements to the path and the improved signage will ease access to the footpath network from the heart of Weymouth.
It will also enable visitors to explore not just the coastal walks, but also the River Wey, via the Wey Valley Walks and connect with the Dorset Ridgeway on the northern edge of Weymouth.
South Dorset Ramblers are centred on Dorchester and Weymouth and the surrounding villages, and their walks cover the entire county and beyond.
Walks usually take place on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays and typically range from 5 to 12 miles.
In addition, the group is actively involved in keeping and improving public access to our beautiful countryside by monitoring proposed changes to rights of way, checking the state of paths and signage, carrying out path clearing where necessary and opposing developments that would have a negative impact on the countryside.
Further information about the group and their walks can be found at www.southdorsetramblers.org.uk
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