Path Work

Many of our rights of way are natural unsurfaced paths through grass, maybe between hedges. Unfortunately, this ‘intimacy’ with nature can become unwelcome when vigorous growth of nettles, brambles and hedges - especially from May and through the summer - can start to block the paths. Regular walking of the paths identifies the potential problems and in itself helps keep them clear.

We can then take steps to keep paths clear; Ken Hawkins is also the Footpath Warden for Dereham Town Council and he (and other volunteers) can regularly be seen busily trying to clear routes as fast as the shrubbery can grow up.

If you spot a problem or can help with the work please get in touch with Ken.

In addition, we also work to encourage action from those with responsibility to keep paths open and welcoming. For example major improvements have been made following our representations, such as work on Footpath 1/1a, and Footpath 14.

Here are just a few examples of path our efforts:

Report on progress with footpath 14.
Strong winds have taken their toll with a number of medium sized trees falling, this time we need the chainsaw.
Clearing dumped rubbish and litter from footpaths 11 and 14.
TCV logo With help again from the Norfolk branch of The Conservation Volunteers RB30 is now safe to walk.
The speed of summer growth is a problem. This is especially true with some of the paths which have recently been brought back into use as the nettles and brambles will have strong roots. As long as we keep at it, over time this will become more easily manageable.
Clearing nettles and litter from footpath 14.
TCV logo Help from volunteer groups is most welcome when we have a difficult problem. We are grateful for the help from the Norfolk branch of The Conservation Volunteers who cleared dozens of tree stumps from Restricted Byway 28.
Clearing brambles from Restricted Byways 30 and 31.
Fallen branches being cleared to increase headroom.
Heavy duty mower clearing path edges.
Repairing the board-walk between Stone Rd and Scarning Fen.
A chainsaw is sometimes welcome when a path has been disused for sometime.