Cycling enthusiasts get the chance to enjoy new Lincoln woodland route

Cyclists across Lincoln will be able to enjoy a new scenic journey following the opening of a cycle path route on Thursday, September 24.

Thanks to £7,857 of funding from Lincolnshire County Council, the new route, located in the Woodland Trust’s Old Wood, Skellingthorpe, takes in part of the 230 acre Witham Valley Country Park.

Created by the Woodland Trust and joining the popular Sustrans path from Harby to Lincoln, the route provides an opportunity for cyclists to explore the Old Wood and also enjoy a newly-created family picnic area.

The oak sculpture forms a dramatic entrance for the trail, which can be enjoyed by cyclists, horse riders and walkers

The woodland is managed on behalf of the Woodland Trust by Hill Holt Wood, whose team created an impressive oak arch for visitors to enter by.

Councillor Reg Shore, executive member for Waste and Recycling said: “Lincolnshire is very fortunate to have some fantastic country parks and it is important these areas are accessible for everyone to enjoy.

“I am delighted we have invested in a new cycling route through this wonderful ancient woodland which is also enjoyed by walkers, bird watchers and horse riders.

“There’s every chance you might spot a dormouse or deer, or hear an owl; see orchids, bluebells and many other species of flower.

“It is also a habitat for the elusive nightingale and the extremely rare hobby – so it really is a fun, free day out for the whole family.”

Janette Wickens, regional development officer for the Woodland Trust, added: “As autumn approaches, there’s nothing better than a bracing bike ride to help you enjoy your local wood.

“Now, thanks to funding from Lincolnshire County Council, we’ve been able to create an all-new bicycle trail through Old Wood in Skellingthorpe that connects to an existing Sustrans route – as well as a picnic area! We hope that local families and cycling enthusiasts take the chance to get out there and explore.”

Last year Lincolnshire County Council also gave £8k of funding to The Woodland Trust’s ‘A greener, healthier Lincolnshire’ supporting the creation of 7 hectares of new woodland in the county. To find out more about the Woodland Trust and their projects, visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/

Bikes are available to hire from Skellingthorpe Community Centre, through the Hirebike scheme.