The Stop Line Way, a vital cycle link forming part of National Cycle Network route 33, offers a popular traffic-free connection between the Somerset towns of Chard and Ilminster. This route, which avoids the busy A358, has been praised by cyclists and walkers alike for its flat terrain and picturesque views of the Somerset countryside, including highlights such as Chard Reservoir and historical World War II relics along the path.
Users on popular hiking app AllTrails have lauded the route’s accessibility and scenic charm. One visitor commented that the path follows the old Taunton to Chard railway line - now trackless - and noted features like pillboxes, tank traps, and a machine gun nest near Knoll St Giles road. The hamlet of Donyatt, around two-thirds along the route from Chard, offers an old church and a welcoming pub, The George, serving as a pleasant rest point before continuing to Ilminster.
Despite the route’s popularity, concerns have recently been raised regarding its upkeep. Much of the maintenance work has been carried out by volunteers, notably the Green Ilminster group, who have organised communal efforts to clear overgrown vegetation and widen parts of the path.
Councillor Sue Osborne, representing the Ilminster division, has called for Somerset Council to commit additional central government funding towards the route’s improvement and to establish a comprehensive long-term plan for its maintenance. At a council executive committee meeting in Taunton on 5 August, she questioned if the route had been formally assessed for capital and revenue support through the consolidated active travel fund and sought clarity on the allocation and availability of such funding.
Mrs Osborne emphasised the need for collaboration between the council, local communities, town and parish councils, and organisations like the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to prepare a detailed, costed plan for the Stop Line Way’s condition, maintenance, and enhancements. She stressed the importance of identifying suitable funding streams, including capital, revenue, and developer contributions.
In support of such efforts, Persimmon Homes South West has pledged approximately £81,000 towards improvements to the Stop Line Way, linked to planning permission for 360 new homes on Canal Way in Ilminster. Plans for the initial 97 homes are currently under consideration.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, the portfolio holder for highways and transport, confirmed that the Stop Line Way forms part of the council’s local transport delivery plan. However, he highlighted that limited financial resources and officer capacity necessitate focusing on projects that can be swiftly delivered. He noted that consolidated active travel fund grants committed by March 2026 have been allocated to various other towns, including Chard, Glastonbury, and Yeovil, and that some funding will be available from spring 2027 to support community-led projects.
Mr Wilkins also outlined ongoing developments, such as a rural network plan and a quiet lanes policy, intended to enhance active travel opportunities on rural roads with local community input. He credited fellow councillor Ros Wyke, representing Mendip West, for significant contributions toward rural active travel initiatives across Somerset, including expansions to the Strawberry Line and the Windsor Hill Greenway near Shepton Mallet.
Though direct officer support for the Stop Line Way remains limited at present, Somerset Council continues to encourage and assist community groups interested in advancing local active travel schemes through light-touch backing and the local community network active travel working group.
The Stop Line Way remains a cherished asset for Somerset’s active travellers, with calls growing louder to secure its future through strategic investment and coordinated maintenance efforts.