A well-loved cycle route connecting the Somerset towns of Chard and Ilminster has been highlighted as a “popular traffic-free route,” offering cyclists breath-taking countryside views and avoiding the busy A358. However, local campaigners and councillors say it requires more robust support and long-term funding.
Known as the Stop Line Way, this path forms part of the National Cycle Network route 33. It follows the former Taunton to Chard railway line, providing a flat and accessible route through picturesque Somerset landscapes, including sights such as Chard Reservoir. Reviewers on the hiking app AllTrails praise the route for its ease and scenic value, with one noting it “takes in some lovely scenes of the Somerset countryside” and features historical remnants from World War II, such as pill boxes and tank traps.
The route passes through the hamlet of Donyatt, where cyclists and walkers can pause at the historic church or enjoy a break at The George pub before continuing their journey towards Ilminster. Another visitor described the trail as “absolutely stunning and a must!”
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Despite its popularity, maintenance of the Stop Line Way has largely depended on volunteer efforts in recent years. The community group Green Ilminster has led well-attended sessions to clear overgrown vegetation and widen sections of the path. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised about the absence of sustained maintenance and an official improvement plan.
Councillor Sue Osborne, representing Ilminster, has publicly urged Somerset Council to allocate central government funding to enhance and maintain the route long-term. Speaking at a council executive meeting on 5 August in Taunton, she requested confirmation on whether the Stop Line Way had been assessed for capital and revenue support under the consolidated active travel fund, and queried how much of Somerset Council’s allocation from this fund remained available.
Councillor Osborne also asked whether the route featured within the council’s Local Transport Delivery Plan, which prioritises projects through to 2030. She called for officers to collaborate with local community groups, town and parish councils, and organisations such as the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to develop a detailed, costed plan covering route condition, maintenance, and improvements. This plan should then identify suitable capital, revenue, and developer contribution funding sources.
Development contributions are already supporting the route; Persimmon Homes South West has committed approximately £81,000 towards enhancements to the Stop Line Way, connected to their outline permission for 360 homes on Canal Way in Ilminster. Detailed planning for the first 97 homes is currently under consideration.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for highways and transport, confirmed the route is included in the Local Transport Delivery Plan but emphasised that funding and officer time must be prioritised for projects that can be delivered quickly. A keen cyclist himself, he affirmed the council’s support for the development of the Stop Line Way as part of broader plans for strategic multi-user trails.
He highlighted recent progress made following new rural active travel guidance from Active Travel England, which now enables the council to develop more rural paths. Work is underway on a rural network plan and a quiet lanes policy to prioritise active travel on rural roads, based on local community demand.
Councillor Wilkins credited Councillor Ros Wyke for advancing rural active travel projects across Somerset, including new sections of the Strawberry Line and the Windsor Hill Greenway near Shepton Mallet. He stated that while the Stop Line Way is not explicitly referenced in the current consolidated active travel fund commitments, some funding has been earmarked to support community-led projects starting in spring 2027.
However, he acknowledged the council’s limited officer capacity and finances, explaining that dedicated support for the route is currently restricted. Instead, the council offers “light touch support” through the local community network active travel working group for groups developing their own schemes.
In summary, while the Stop Line Way enjoys strong local popularity and is valued for its scenic, traffic-free cycling experience, stakeholders are advocating for official recognition and sustained funding to secure its upkeep and enhancements for the future.