A major cycling path in Reading will be “opened up” for wheelchair users, cyclists and parents with buggies.
Barriers along the National Cycle Network Route 4 in Reading currently make it difficult for those in wheelchairs, pushing buggies and cyclists to use the route.
The Department for Transport will fund a project to modify the barriers at Katesgrove, Waterloo Meadows and Fobney Lock.
Margaret Pawson from charity Disabled Ramblers said the improvements “will give wheelchair users and families with pushchairs access to this wonderful green lung in the centre of Reading”.
“With the towpath continuing at the Kennet and Avon canal, a whole new area of the countryside will be open to us,” she added.
The barriers were originally installed to deter motorcyclists but have made using the route difficult for many.
Charity Sustrans are implementing the changes to the barriers and will also improve the surface of the path, so that people are able to use no matter the weather.
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James Cleeton, England South director at Sustrans, said: “The barriers on this section of the National Cycle Network prevent so many people from easily using the route.
“We hope that making these changes will make the path a more appealing and practical option for everyone wishing to use this traffic-free route.
“We know that travelling actively has massive benefits for individuals and the environment and modifying these barriers will mean even more people are able to take advantage of those benefits.”
Sustrans – the charity making it easier for people to walk and cycle – is consulting on the best way to implement the plans until November 7.
Sustrans is working with Reading Borough Council (RBC), the Canal and River Trust and Thames Valley Police on the project.
Councillor Tony Page, RBC lead member for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport, said: “As part of its climate emergency agenda the council is keen to explore opportunities to open up more walking and cycling routes to encourage the greater use of more sustainable ways of getting around Reading.”
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