Funding boost for Cole Green Way

Improvements to Cole Green Way are a step closer after funding of £300,000 was secured from national charity Sustrans.

The 4-mile Cole Green Way forms part of the National Cycle Network and links Hertford to Welwyn Garden City. It is an important route for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders, and a valuable wildlife corridor. The majority of the route is owned and managed by Hertfordshire County Council.

The works include resurfacing, improvements to drainage and signage; and replacement of steps, gates, fencing and benches.

Restoration work at Cole Green station has recently started, with the removal of vegetation. Other work will include restoring brickwork; reclaiming, restoring and reinstalling iron railings, and installing traditional railway-style benches and signage along the platform.

The resurfacing works will see the Installation of a new 3m wide self-binding surface between Staines Green and St Mary’s Lane, and resurfacing of existing tarmac.

Phil Bibby, Hertfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment, said: "This funding is wonderful news. The Cole Green Way is already a great facility, and this money will help us to fulfil the route’s potential. We’re looking forward to our residents being able to use it to a much greater extent again when the government guidance on social distancing is no longer in place - and the continuing improvement work has been completed.

"Our aim is to make the route easier and more pleasant for everyone to use, and our vision sees walking, cycling and public transport playing a much greater role in getting people around, as shown in the Local Transport Plan. This is another example of action we’re taking across the county to make active travel safer and more accessible."

Gwyneth McMinn, Sustrans’ Head of Network Development, Midlands and East, said: "We are delighted to support Hertfordshire County Council with much-needed funding for the Cole Green Way. This beautiful and popular route has huge potential to provide a quality green corridor for everyone walking or cycling to schools and local businesses, and enhance a developing market for sustainable tourism in the area."

The planned work on the Cole Green Way will provide a more attractive and user-friendly route, while maintaining its rural character and making sure its value to wildlife is recognised. The former site of Cole Green station is also being restored, to celebrate the route's heritage, with local Countryside Management Service volunteers taking part.