Upgrade for popular walking route gets under way

David Spereall
BBC News, Yorkshire
Kirklees Council A woman and small girl walk along a path with a dog. The path is flanked by trees and grass. A blue sign indicating it is the 'Spen Valley Greenway' sits to the side and features the words 'Share, respect, enjoy'Kirklees Council
Work on part of the Spen Valley Greenway is expected to take six months

Part of a popular walking and cycling route which runs through a West Yorkshire beauty spot is set to be upgraded.

Work on the Spen Valley Greenway between Cleckheaton and Liversedge would begin on Monday, according to Kirklees Council.

Lights and signage along the 1.5-mile (2km) section of the Greenway would be improved, while the off-road path would be widened and resurfaced.

The scheme, funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Kirklees Council and the charity Sustrans, was expected to take six months, a council spokesperson said.

The section, which runs from Tesco in Cleckheaton to the Knowler Hill Tunnel in Liversedge, would be closed for the duration of the work, with signposted diversions in place, they added.

Moses Crook, deputy leader of Kirklees Council, said: "I'm delighted to see the improvement works on Spen Valley Greenway begin.

"This investment is a fantastic boost for the community, enhancing access for everyone whether they're walking, cycling, using a wheelchair or pushing a pram.

"It's a great step towards sustainable, inclusive travel and a healthier, more connected future for everyone."

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