The Strawberry Line is on the brink of completing a significant milestone. Over the past year, dedicated volunteers and key partners have been diligently working to extend the path by another kilometre, which will directly connect Wells to Churchill Batch Lane.

Despite challenging weather conditions, volunteers have tirelessly cleared 1000 metres of scrub vegetation, allowing for ground works. They have also installed over 300 metres of panel fencing and provided support to the principal contractor, MP & KM Golding Ltd. Additionally, they have maintained the open sections between Wells and Dulcote Quarry.

Significant progress has been made since the last update in July 2023. The recent breakthrough to the temporary terminus at Churchill Batch Lane marks a memorable achievement and a cause for celebration. Once the Strawberry Line extends to Shepton Mallet, the ramp at Churchill Batch Lane will serve as a permanent access point, linked to a network of lanes and footpaths, enhancing opportunities for exploration and active travel.

The "Strawberry Line" was the nickname of the Cheddar Valley Line, a Great Western Railway branch line that ran from Witham Junction to Yatton via Shepton Mallet, Wells and Cheddar until the late 1960s.

Since the 1980s, the route has been transforming, step by step, into a beautiful greenway through North and Mid-Somerset. The path will be suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, mobility scooters, and on some sections, equestrians. Once completed, the Strawberry Line path will run from Shepton Mallet to Clevedon, incorporating the Cheddar Valley Line trackbed wherever possible, as well as much of the disused Clevedon branch line.

This endeavour would not be possible without the collaboration and support of various partners. Special thanks are extended to the Wells/Dulcote Strawberry Line volunteers, neighbouring volunteer groups, Greenways & Cycleroutes, Somerset Council, and the landowners whose support has been indispensable.

For safety reasons, the public is advised to avoid the work site between Dulcote Quarry and Churchill Batch Lane until all works are complete.

Exploring beyond Churchill Batch Lane on private land is also discouraged. The community's patience and adherence to public footpaths and lanes are greatly appreciated.

The Strawberry Line project exemplifies the unwavering dedication of volunteers and partners in enhancing community connectivity and maintaining established links. Those inspired by this project are encouraged to contribute, either as a volunteer or a Strawberry Line Society (SLS) member. Joining the SLS for £10 provides essential support for maintenance and improvements. For more information or to join, visit https://www.thestrawberryline.org.uk/join.