Funding boost for walking and cycling on the Upper Don Trail

Councillors have announced that funding to deliver the next stage of the Upper Don Cycle Trail Project has been given the go-ahead.

Designs and cost estimates for the route will now be created to support an outline business case, but the project already has the backing of the ruling Labour group.

The project will link Herries Road near Hillsborough Stadium with Hillfoot Bridge near Kelham Island, creating a revamped off-road route along the River Don.

It will follow the path of an existing route on the site, which is in many places inaccessible, neglected and poorly signposted.

“This is a fantastic project and just the kind of thing we need to be doing to promote cycling and opening up some of our city's fantastic assets so people can make the most of them," said Cllr Bob Johnson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Development.

“As a local councillor in Hillsborough I know the potential that there is for this scheme to open fantastic cycling and walking opportunities in our area, which will also run past the Wardsend Cemetery Heritage Park."

The Council are proposing to deliver the project in two phases.

Phase 1 will create a walking and cycling link from Herries Road to Wardsend Cemetery. The second phase will extend this route from the cemetery to Hillfoot Bridge, passing Parkwood Springs park.

The project also aims to fill missing links in both National Cycle Route 267 and the Upper Don Trail. The feasibility stage of the scheme is due to be completed next month.

"This is brilliant news and something we've been looking forward to for a long time," said the Friends of Wardsend Cemetery in a statement.

"Wardsend is one of Sheffield’s hidden treasures. The trail will enable active travel and open up the cultural and natural heritage of the upper Don from Sheffield to Stocksbridge and beyond."