A NEW section of the Somerset Circle walking and cycling route has been officially opened, creating a 1.3-kilometre traffic-free path and a signposted cycling route connecting to minor roads over the Mendip Hills.

The 1.3-kilometre section links Hamwood Viaduct with Thrupe Lane, creating a traffic-free route, while a signposted cycle path will guide riders along minor roads to Gurney Slade and Chilcompton.

The new section is a key link in the Somerset Circle, a project initiated by the former Mendip District Council and now inherited by Somerset Council.

In the last three years sections of the Circle have been completed at West Shepton, Dulcote, Westbury-sub-Mendip and Easton.

The project has been coordinated by charitable organisation Greenways and Cycleroutes, working in partnership with local councils, the Strawberry Line Society, local landowners and voluntary groups.

Invited guests for the opening included former HM Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, representatives from Shepton Mallet Town Council, contractors MP & KM Golding Ltd and volunteers from The Strawberry Line Society, Shepton Mallet Community Woodland, and Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels.

The route was officially opened by long standing campaigner for traffic-free paths, Somerset Council’s Associate Lead Member for Active Travel and Public Transport, and West Mendip Councillor Ros Wyke, and Christopher Somerville, representative of Dinder Estate.

Cllr Ros Wyke said: "This is an exciting moment. The new section we’re gathering to open today completes a key missing link in the Somerset Circle and opens up a safe, active travel route from Shepton right into the Mendip Hills.’

The Somerset Circle, when completed, will form a 76-mile traffic-free circuit linking Bristol, Bath, the Mendip Hills, the Somerset Levels.

Multi-user path development is a key corporate priority for Somerset Council. The council aims to connect communities, reduce car travel, cut carbon emissions, and promote active lifestyles across Somerset.