In a unique partnership with volunteers, councils, charities and contractors, Somerset Council is working to create a traffic-free path from the Mendips to the sea along the former railway line, known as the Strawberry Line.

The new bridge – which is as long as a double-decker bus – over the B3136 in Shepton Mallet is another step towards eventually connecting Ridge Road to Collett Park in the town centre. Although now in place, the bridge is not yet open to the public.

Further works are underway to connect the bridge to new and existing paths, which together will create a safer route for residents in South Shepton to walk and cycle to the playing fields, scout hut, football club and towards Shepton Mallet Community Hospital.

An official opening and ribbon cutting is planned for Friday, 8 November 2024.

Construction was supervised by volunteer led charitable organisation Greenways and Cycle routes and work carried out by local contractors MP and KM Golding.

The Strawberry Line volunteers together with volunteers from the neighbouring Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels project have provided key support and helped with clearance and construction through regular weekly volunteer sessions and at Greenways workcamps.

This has included supporting with all aspects of the path, from land access negotiations, vegetation clearing and preparatory works ahead of construction, to planting the verges and surrounding areas, creating local walking routes, managing the local ecology and maintaining the path itself. 

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services, said:

A huge thank you to our community groups and volunteers for progressing work, your efforts have transformed the disused railway into a vibrant pathway for everyone to use. We have been honoured to support you in making the Strawberry Line a success.

The Strawberry Line project encourages people out of cars, reducing congestion and pollution, while promoting active travel and a healthy lifestyle. The new bridge, coupled with Shepton Town Council led improvements to Collett Park and future aspirations to create an Arts Trail and support local businesses along the route and gives Shepton Mallet a boost for now and generations to come. 

More information can be found on the Strawberry Line’s Discover the line webpage.