The completion of a crucial gap on Somerset’s long-distance Strawberry Line cycle route is facing potential delay due to obstacles posed by the Historic Railways Estate (HRE), a government body overseeing former railway assets.
Currently, the Strawberry Line path offers seamless access from Yatton railway station to Labourham Way in Cheddar, with plans to extend through to Collett Park in Shepton Mallet. A major milestone was reached in October 2024 when a pedestrian and cycling bridge over the busy B3136 West Shepton road was installed, linking Shepton Mallet’s town centre with its southwestern Ridge Road neighborhood.
However, the next phase—connecting this new section to the Dulcote stretch—relies on reopening an arch of the Stump Cross Bridge beneath Ridge Road. This historic railway bridge was filled in years ago by HRE, which installed “bat hotels” to protect protected species and reinforced the structure for farm vehicle use. Although one arch was left unopened but unfilled, access to it has yet to be granted.
The Strawberry Line Society has partnered with HRE for over two years to negotiate opening this arch and securing neighboring landowners’ cooperation, which hinges on HRE’s consent. Despite exploratory excavation revealing that minimal work is needed, progress remains stalled.
Mick Fletcher, chairman of the Strawberry Line Society, emphasized the societal benefits the link would deliver, stating, “This path provides safe, off-road access to the countryside, essential for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders alike—offering a valuable alternative to dangerous, congested local roads.” He also praised prior collaborations with HRE, such as the path beneath A371 Cannard’s Grave Road which now supports approximately 120,000 annual trips.
While mindful of protecting local bat populations and biodiversity—core elements of the Society’s mission—the group argues that carefully managed excavation would have minimal disturbance compared to previous modifications for bat habitats. Fletcher lamented the slow pace and lack of transparency, urging HRE to adopt a broader vision that supports safe rural access alongside conservation priorities.
The Ridge Road area itself is a busy thoroughfare, used not only by agriculture but also as a “rat run” for traffic avoiding A371 congestion, particularly during major events like the Glastonbury Festival. Securing the cycle route here promises safer, quieter travel and a scenic path viewing the Somerset Levels toward Glastonbury and Wells.
Somerset Council is reviewing further funding for the Strawberry Line and the wider Somerset Circle cycling project, with decisions expected soon. Fletcher remains optimistic that, with HRE’s approval, construction could begin as early as summer, though the Society is prepared to escalate efforts politically if negotiations falter.
HRE project manager Matthew Irwin affirmed the department’s commitment to collaboration: “We are reviewing all options carefully, considering ecological and safety factors alongside stakeholder input. Our goal is to identify a solution that balances heritage, environment, and public use in a timely manner.”
As negotiations continue, the Strawberry Line Society remains steadfast in its vision to close this key gap and enrich Somerset’s network of sustainable transport options.