Tenterden’s Colonel Stephens Greenway to undergo four-week resurfacing project

Residents and visitors to Tenterden can look forward to an improved experience on the Colonel Stephens Greenway, as plans for a four-week resurfacing project have been confirmed. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility along the popular walking and cycling route, which serves as a vital traffic-free link between St Michael's and the town centre, while also connecting with National Cycle Network Route 18.

Kent County Council (KCC) has approved the £150,000 scheme, which is funded by the Department for Transport's Active Travel Fund. The project will involve resurfacing a 650-metre stretch of the Greenway, ensuring that the pathway remains usable in all weather conditions. The work is set to commence in October and is expected to take approximately four weeks to complete, with Ringway appointed as the contractor for the task.

The improvements will feature a three-metre-wide shared-use path designed for walking, wheeling, and cycling. Additionally, fencing will be installed in areas identified as having safety risks, further enhancing the security of the route for all users. The resurfacing project has been a long-awaited development for the community, with local leaders expressing their enthusiasm for the enhancements.

KCC’s deputy cabinet member for highways and transport has highlighted the significance of this route for both residents and visitors. The improved surface is anticipated to promote greater accessibility and encourage more people to use the route for their everyday journeys. Tenterden Town Council (TTC) has also voiced its approval, noting that the path, often referred to as ‘the old railway track’, has been a focus for improvement efforts for several years.

This resurfacing project aligns with local goals to boost active travel opportunities in Tenterden. It was identified as a priority in both a 2018 Sustrans audit and TTC’s Highways Improvement Plan for 2024, underlining its importance to the community’s transport infrastructure.

To ensure minimal impact on the local ecology, the scheduled works will adhere to specialist environmental recommendations, safeguarding the route's natural features throughout the improvement process. During the construction phase, the Greenway will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists, who will be diverted via nearby estate roads.

As Tenterden continues to prioritise sustainable transport options, the resurfacing of Colonel Stephens Greenway represents a significant step forward in enhancing the town's walking and cycling network. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the project and prepare for the temporary changes during the construction period.