Nantwich town councillors have welcomed a formal dedication of a new public footpath on Mill Island in the town.
The route is now officially recorded as Nantwich Public Footpath No. 34.
It comes following the completion of a legal process that began with a public consultation way back in 2019.
The footpath forms part of a route connecting St Anne’s Lane to the bridge over the River Weaver and ensures continuity of access across Mill Island.
The previously unrecorded public right of way was recognised and diverted through the planning process for the development of the St Anne’s site, which is set to become a privately-run car park.
The new alignment was designed to be convenient for the site and its users while preserving public access.
To support the diversion and maintain a through-route, Nantwich Town Council had to complete a Deed of Dedication for a connecting footpath across Mill Island.
The newly dedicated path ensures the diverted footpath is not a legal cul-de-sac and is now part of the “Definitive Map and Statement” — the official legal record of Public Rights of Way.
Public notices will be placed on-site, in local newspapers, and online to inform residents and visitors of the completed legal process.
Cllr Anna Burton said: “This footpath not only preserves public access, but enhances connectivity across the heart of Nantwich.
“We’re pleased to see the process concluded and thank all who participated in the original consultation and planning phases.”
For more information or to view the Plan of the Deed of Dedication, visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/prow
(Aerial image of St Anne’s Lane site, by Jonathan White)
Car park? This was supposed to be housing, shops or other. What happened here?