Executive approve funds for new access ramp along the Greenway

20 December 2024

North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive have approved the allocation of funding which will mean that works can start on a new ramp off the Washbrook Road, Rushden onto the Greenway.

The long-awaited investment to the Greenway was first highlighted as part of the Out to Water, Into History project (funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund) and through Rushden’s Neighbourhood Plan.

The new ramp will provide a safe route down from Washbrook Road at Midland Road to the Greenway and connect the community that live in and around the area and currently have to go out of their way to access the Greenway. It is estimated that approximately 600 more households within a five-minute walk will be able to directly use the Greenway to reach Rushden High Street, go towards Crown Park or further afield.

We know the Washbrook Road ramp has been something that has been on the wish list of Greenway users for many years and we’ve been working behind the scenes to make this happen. I am absolutely delighted that we have now secured the extra funds to complete this work, the escalation in construction costs have been a considerable pressure to the project.

It is great news that using a combination of Section 106 money and now approved council funds, works will be able to start on this vital addition to the already well-used stretch of the Greenway, opening it up to more and more residents. We will continue to develop the Greenway throughout North Northants as highlighted in the Greenway strategy which was adopted by the Executive in August 2024.Cllr Helen Howell, the council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism

As a council, we’re always looking at ways to improve active travel across the area and the Greenway is one example of this.

The addition of the new ramp will make this a more realistic choice for residents of Rushden - encouraging residents to use the route instead of getting in their car, which not only reduces the number of vehicles on the road but also helps improve resident’s health and wellbeing.Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council

Due to escalating costs in the construction industry, the project had been on hold for a number of years until the council received Section 106 funding specifically for the building of the access ramp. North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive have now agreed to fund the shortfall as part of its Capital Programme.

Before the main works start in Spring 2025, there will be a notice of works in advance and there may be periods of time where sections of the Greenway have to be closed, 7 days’ notice will be given before these closures.