Local footpath restored and reopened in Swinton

A once-inaccessible footpath between Manchester Road and the East Lancs in Swinton and Pendlebury has been brought back into use, thanks to local councillors, council teams and community volunteers.

The route had become badly overgrown and boggy over time, making it difficult or impossible to use. After local residents raised concerns, ward councillors visited the site with Salford City Council’s Public Rights of Way officer to explore solutions.

The Conservation Volunteers began the initial clearance, which revealed a much bigger job than expected. Salford City Council’s environmental services team then stepped in to carry out the heavy groundwork, including laying a new path surface.

Councillor Barbara Bentham Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety said:

“We’re really pleased to see this footpath reopened and looking so much better. It had become completely overgrown and unusable, but thanks to the hard work of our Public Rights of Way officer, environmental services team and local volunteers, it’s now a safe and accessible route again. It’s a great example of different teams working together to improve a well-used green space, and local residents have already told us how valuable it is – whether they’re out for a walk, on their way to school, or heading to work."

Councillor Jim Cammell, who represents Swinton Park and worked with the volunteers, added:

“It’s been great to be involved in this project and to support the volunteers who gave their time to help improve this space. The new path is already proving popular with residents, and it’s brilliant to see it back in use after such a long time.”
 

The council is now exploring future funding opportunities to connect this route to the wider greenway network and bring it up to the same standard.