Rushden’s new Greenway ramp, located by the tunnel that runs under Washbrook Road, has been officially opened.
The Greenway itself originally opened in 2011 and largely runs along the route of the disused Rushden-to-Wellingborough railway line. This new ramp gives walkers, cyclists and disabled folk an easier access on and off the Greenway from Midland Road.
It also allows Greenway users to use the route, without the fear of being “closed in” by the high banks on each side of the culvert.
Councillors in Rushden, initially led by the late Sarah Peacock, had been campaigning for the ramp for many years.
The official opening was attended by councillors from North Northants Council and Rushden Town Council.
Cllr. Martin Griffiths, Leader of NNC, paid tribute to the tireless efforts of Sarah Peacock, while Cllr. Gill Mercer of RTC, said that it was a fitting tribute to Sarah.
A memorial sign, showing a flamboyant peacock, was also unveiled in memory of Sarah Peacock.
Alan and Simon Peacock, husband and son of Sarah, cut the ceremonial cake, while Cllr. Mercer, Mayor of Rushden, cut the ribbon to signify that the ramp was officially open.
It was symbolic that a red kite, the great biodiversity success story of North Northants, chose to circle the crowd, just as the Greenway was declared open.
