A new surfaced bridleway has been opened in Downe today. The High Elms Road bridleway was formally opened by Darwin Ward Councillor, Peter Bloomfield, in the presence of local residents, school children and horse riders. The route improves safety by allowing residents to avoid using the road, as well as extending access to the countryside.
“A new addition to the rights of way network is always something to be celebrated. It provides a valuable off-road link to residents with the added benefit of encouraging exercise and the enjoyment of Downe’s beautiful rural setting.” said Ewa Prokop, Countryside Projects Officer for Bromley.
The third-of-a-mile route passes through the farmland and fields between Downe Recreation Ground and High Elms Country Park and is open to walkers, horse riders and cyclists. Volunteers organised by the Countryside Management Service helped to layer the roadside hedge along the route and install entrances. Children from Downe Primary School and Newstead Woods School also planted a species-rich hedge, including hazel, hawthorn and gelder rose, alongside part of the new route. Further hedge-laying is planned over the winter period.
The bridleway was funded by Transport for London (TFL), the London Borough of Bromley and money raised by Bromley Bridleways Access Group. Upon opening, Peter Bloomfield thanked the tenant farmer and local landowner for their co-operation and support for the project.
ENDS
- For media enquiries, please contact Amy Bevins, Strategy Development Officer, on 020 8313 4989, or e-mail amy.bevins@bromley.gov.uk.
- For information about the route and opening ceremony, ring Ewa Prokop, Countryside Projects Officer, on 020 8313 4665, or e-mail ewa.prokop@bromley.gov.uk.