By KLTV Newsdesk –

Major upgrades to the popular walking and cycling path promise smoother journeys, improved safety, and greater accessibility for all.

The Spen Valley Greenway between Cleckheaton and Liversedge has received a major facelift, officially unveiled last weekend by Kim Leadbeater MP, who cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.

The launch formed part of an open day organised by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans), where local residents joined in the celebrations by decorating their bikes, playing pedal-powered arcade games, and trying out a range of adapted cycles along the upgraded route.

A Greener, Safer Path for All

Once a railway line, the Spen Valley Greenway is now a beloved route for walkers, cyclists and those using mobility aids.

However, increasing popularity had led to congestion, and the path had suffered from damaged surfaces caused by tree roots. Many users—particularly women—also reported feeling unsafe after dark.

To address these issues, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust worked with Kirklees Council to resurface a 2km stretch of the greenway, improving access ramps and widening the path to three metres to give everyone more room.

New LED lighting has also been installed to improve visibility and help users feel safer.

The project was funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund, part of the A638 Dewsbury–Cleckheaton Sustainable Travel Corridor, which aims to connect communities with jobs, education, and essential services across the region.

Local Voices Celebrate the Change

Local resident Geoff Render, who rides a tricycle following a cycling accident, said: “Last year, this section was bumpy and there were tree roots in the way. Now I can get on that bit and not worry about falling off.”

Kim Leadbeater MP described the Greenway as “a fantastic asset for the area,” adding: “The Spen Valley Greenway is such a fantastic asset for the area, connecting communities with a beautiful place away from traffic, to walk, wheel and cycle.

“These improvements will help make it easier for people of all abilities to access the path, and the shops, amenities and transport links along it.

“The greenway will play a vital role in enabling more people to choose healthier and greener alternatives to motor transport.”

Supporting Healthier Travel Across the UK

The greenway forms part of the National Cycle Network, created by Sustrans 30 years ago. The charity recently rebranded as Walk Wheel Cycle Trust but continues its mission to make active travel routes more accessible and inclusive.

Chief Executive Xavier Brice praised the Spen Valley improvements: “The Spen Valley Greenway is a perfect example of what happens when people have access to healthier transport choices.

“At peak times, it’s bustling with families on bikes, children walking or wheeling to school, and people commuting to work, study or railway stations.

“The new surface and access ramps open up the path to many more people, using mobility aids, buggies and larger cycles.”

He added: “We’re proud to be working across the UK with our many partners, from local and national government to community organisations and local volunteers to continue to improve the quality and accessibility of the National Cycle Network, for everyone.”

Building an Inclusive Future

Councillor Moses Crook, Deputy Leader of Kirklees Council and Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The transformation of this stretch of the Spen Valley Greenway has been essential in creating an inclusive and welcoming route for people of all ages and abilities, making walking, wheeling and cycling an attractive and realistic travel option for everyone.

“It’s a beautiful place for the community to enjoy nature, explore, and support a healthier lifestyle right on their doorstep.

“We look forward to working together with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to create more dedicated active travel routes across Kirklees.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin also celebrated the improvements, saying: “I’m proud that we’re improving greenways like this so that more people can experience our region’s beautiful countryside.

“Being outside is great for your health and wellbeing, however you choose to get around West Yorkshire.

“Creating safe, accessible walking and cycling routes for everyone is an important part of our vision for an integrated Weaver Network and a better-connected region.”

A Route for the Future

Stretching 12 km from Ravensthorpe in Dewsbury to Low Moor railway station in Bradford, the Spen Valley Greenway runs parallel to the A638, offering a scenic, traffic-free alternative for commuters and leisure users alike.

In 2024, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust upgraded the section between Oakenshaw and Cleckheaton and is now seeking further funding to widen and enhance more sections of the route, including new lighting installations.

The Trust looks after the National Cycle Network, encompassing over 12,000 miles of walking, wheeling and cycling routes across the UK, making active, sustainable travel a reality for everyone.