A proposal to extend the Keswick to Threlkeld trail into St John’s-in-the-Vale is being explored by the Lake District National Park Authority.
Tony Lywood, who is a member of the authority and represents Keswick on Cumbria County Council, said it was currently an aspiration likely to cost around £1.6million.
The proposed route would follow a redundant railway track, travel beneath the A66 via an underpass and then go down into the area of Threlkeld Quarry close to where the LDNPA offices are situated.
“It would give access to St John’s-in-the-Vale and ultimately access to Thirlmere,” said Cllr Lywood.
He added: “I am excited that the Lake District National Park are forward- thinking and this is at a very early stage to extend the Keswick to Threlkeld path.
“The ability to get across the busy A66 is crucial. One thing I was assured of is that this path, if it ever comes to fruition, will not be surfaced in Tarmac.
“We should welcome this possible new path as yet more access for pedestrians and cyclists alike.”
A spokeswoman for the LDNPA said that at this time there was no funding in place or planning activity being undertaken to develop a spur.
“There is a general long-term aspiration to provide sustainable transport links between Keswick and Penrith,” she said.
“The old railway line does exist and is protected in policy from development to allow it to be utilised if opportunities should arise.”
Work on the trail continues to progress well and there is now less than four months to go until it is fully open to the public.
The majority of the work along the Keswick urban section is now complete and last week, a one kilometre stretch between Keswick station and the A591, near Forge Lane at Chestnut Hill, was opened up after safety barriers and fencing were removed by the LDNPA and contractors working for Cubby Construction Ltd.
A spokeswoman for the LDNPA said that the opened section is still within the construction area and some minor works will continue along the opened route.
Members of the public are asked to observe on-site notices and respect any safety fencing still on site.
