A scenic nature trail along the Humber river banks is set to officially open this spring thanks to a kickstart of funding.
Humber Nature Partnership (HNP) has designed the Barton and Barrow Heritage Trail and development will begin after local kitchen retailer, Wren Kitchens (wrenkitchens.com), made a substantial donation.
The walk starting at Waters’ Edge Visitors Centre in Barton-upon-Humber, follows a four-mile route along the coastal path to Barrow Haven and returns via the Waters’ Edge Country Park.
Visitors will learn about the local history of the nineteenth century brick and tile manufacturers on the south bank and after the industry went into decline, the claypits have become internationally important habitats for bird species such as Bitterns and Marsh Harriers.
Artwork for the walk has been designed by Grimsby Institute’s design student Cheryl Cullingford – the stunning watercolour design was chosen at an art exhibition held at the Waters’ Edge Visitor Centre. It formed part of the second-year student’s pro course.
HNP Project Manager, Gordon Kell, said: “After two years of planning and sourcing funding, it’s fantastic to see how the community and our partners have pulled together to get this unique project off the ground."
“It will benefit the wellbeing of residents and visitors and it will encourage people to understand, protect and value our rich local heritage."
“The coastal walk has stunning views over the estuary and loops into the walk in the Waters’ Edge Country Park. We’re confident it will become a popular destination for families and walkers of all ages especially with its fascinating, local history.”
As part of this process, the HNP conducted a local survey to see if people would benefit from a heritage walk like this and they received overwhelming positive feedback which encouraged them to pursue it further.
Wren Kitchens Business Development Director, Stephen Parnaby said: “We are delighted to be supporting this engaging project which will benefit the whole community. Wren Kitchens is one of the biggest employers in the region, and the trail fits in with our ethos to encourage others to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Image L-R: Darren Clarke, Humber Nature Partnership Manager, Stephen Parnaby, Wren Kitchens Business Development Director and Gordon Kell, Humber Nature Partnership Project Manager.
