A NEW wildlife trail that will be accessible to families and disabled people is set to be installed along the canal close to Swindon

The Wiltshire and Berkshire Canal Trust is creating a footpath to go with the restoration of more than a kilometre of the canal at Studley Grange.

As part of the project, it is hoping to install a 290 metre stone rolled pathway, gates, fencing and a bridge to connect the eastern end of the site to a right of way near Hay Lane.

The plan is to provide a green corridor that “will wind through the community for future generations,” said the trust in a statement.

“Graded access from the towpath and the new stone rolled path will greatly improve access and increase opportunities for the public and local community to be physically active in a safe tranquil and traffic-free setting.”

The main restoration project, costing in the region of £750,000, is being funded by several organisations including the Big Lottery, Viridor and the Underwood Trust.

But, while it is waiting for written permission to build the footpath from site owners Biffa, the trust is hoping for a £4,266 grant from the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board to go towards the £13,865 needed for it.

Its application is due to be considered by the panel of Wiltshire councillors when the area board meets in Purton Village Hall on May 18.

“Excavating the canal channel creating the towpath and installing interpretation materials have greatly improved this area and have created a fantastic space for the local community,” it said.

“Walkers already love the restored sections of the Wilts Berks canal and cannot wait to access this new wildlife trail.”

According to the trust, the restoration and the new path will provide a boost to the local economy as well as offering environmental benefits.

“There will also be additional recreational opportunities for boating canoeing and fishing. Visitors will increase local trade in pubs, bed and breakfasts and businesses in Royal Wootton Bassett and the surrounding area.

“There are also great environmental benefits the diversity of plants and wildlife will increase to make a great setting for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts.”

Young people have already been involved in creating materials for the wildlife trail, which will have information boards and learning posts along the route.

The grant application is among several being discussed at the meeting starts at 7pm and is open to the public.