Project connecting Elmswell and Woolpit '30 years too late' backed by Mid Suffolk District Council with £3m investment

A project connecting two villages has been backed with a £3 million investment despite being '30 years too late'.

Cllr Andrew Stringer asked Mid Suffolk cabinet members earlier today to approve a £3.09 million investment meant to deliver a new walking, wheeling and cycling route connecting the villages of Elmswell and Woolpit.

The long-awaited project was initially given the go-ahead by councillors in 2008 but has struggled to get off the ground due to a lack of money.

Cllr Stringer said: "This project will link two villages which share key services and infrastructure in a sustainable way.

"It represents a major piece of infrastructure that will ensure the safety of those using that route at the same time as promoting the use of sustainable forms of transport."

The investment, approved unanimously by cabinet members, was made possible through contributions by developers, known as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).

Sarah Mansel, ward member for both villages, said: "It's absolutely fantastic that we are here, probably about 30 years too late - this project has been a bit pipe dream.

"I'm really excited that we are now in a position that this might actually come to fruition in the next couple of years."

The project follows strong community involvement over fears that getting around the village carries unacceptable safety risks.

It has attracted £398,484 from separate developer contributions due to s106 legal agreements, as well as a further £300,000 from the county council's Local Transport Plan funding pot.

Officers hope work on the site can begin by the end of this financial year or early into the next, lasting for up to five months once it begins.

Though most of the route is under the control of Suffolk Highways, the county department is engaging with landowners for the section of the route running along Church Road.

Further approval is needed from National Highways for the design of the section covering the overbridge before work can begin.