Somerset Cycleway Faces Uncertain Future as Funding Ends

The Ilminster-Chard Shared Path, locally known as the Cycleway or the Stop Line Way, is at risk after key funders announced they will no longer support its upkeep. This popular five-mile route, linking Ilminster to Chard, now needs volunteers to help maintain and protect this vital community resource.

Opened in 2008 through a collaboration between the national charity Sustrans, South Somerset District Council, and local town and parish councils, the path is part of National Cycle Network Route 33. It offers a tranquil, traffic-free corridor used daily by walkers, runners, and cyclists for both leisure and commuting.

Not only does the route provide a green escape, but it also serves as a bridleway from Ilminster to Peasmarsh, catering to various types of users. Importantly, it offers a safe alternative to the hazardous A358, where traffic volumes can reach 13,500 vehicles a day with speeds up to 60 mph.

While volunteers in Donyatt, Somerset Council’s Rights of Way team, and local councils have been performing essential maintenance like vegetation control and repairs, the original partners never established a permanent body to oversee ongoing care and improvements.

With Sustrans withdrawing support due to funding cuts, the path’s condition is deteriorating, with issues such as surface wear and poor signage becoming more prominent.

Matt Day of the LCN Active Travel working group emphasizes the urgent need for community involvement: “We’re calling on people who value the Stop Line Way to join a ‘Friends of the Path’ group. Inspired by the success of Friends of The Strawberry Line, this group can organize maintenance efforts, seek funding for improvements, and host events to celebrate this wonderful local asset.”

Those interested in contributing to the future of the cycleway are encouraged to contact Matt Day at 07714 648913 or via email at [email protected].