Plans to expand the Strawberry Line in and around Wells are progressing, with new sections of the walking and cycling route set to improve connectivity across the city and surrounding villages.

Once completed, the Strawberry Line will provide an uninterrupted car-free path from Yatton railway station to Collett Park in Shepton Mallet, passing through Wells and several Mendip villages. The project, which follows the former Cheddar Valley railway line, is being delivered in phases, with volunteers, local contractors, and grant funding driving progress.

In Wells, work is underway to add a new section of the path near Easton Village Hall. This marks the first phase of a route that will eventually connect the village to Haybridge near St Cuthbert's paper mill. While the first phase is expected to open to pedestrians in the coming weeks, its completion will depend on ongoing negotiations with local landowners. Until then, visitors are reminded to stick to designated public footpaths in the area to respect private land and maintain positive relationships with landowners.

Meanwhile, the city centre will see a small addition to the route as part of the new Lidl supermarket development on West Street. This new stretch will help close gaps in the on-road sections within Wells, further improving access for pedestrians and cyclists.

At the eastern end of the route, Collett Park in Shepton Mallet will serve as a major terminus for the Strawberry Line. Plans approved by Shepton Mallet Town Council include significant enhancements to the park's entrance to better accommodate walkers and cyclists, along with upgrades to the café, toilets, and landscaping.

Cllr Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, praised the efforts of volunteers and contractors, highlighting the importance of the route for local communities. "Your efforts have transformed the disused railway into a vibrant pathway for everyone to use. This triumph gives more people the opportunity to leave their cars at home and get into active travel – which is great for health, well-being, and the environment," he said.

The Strawberry Line Society, the volunteer-led group overseeing much of the project, is also working closely with National Highways to address a key bottleneck at Stump Cross Bridge on Ridge Road near Shepton Mallet. Unlocking this section will allow the route to extend westwards toward Croscombe, ultimately linking the path to Wells.

The Strawberry Line has already transformed walking and cycling opportunities in the Mendip area, with more improvements planned over the next 18 months. For those interested in getting involved or staying updated on the project, visit www.thestrawberryline.org.uk.