Cheltenham College is celebrating the opening of a new fully accessible pathway linking National Star College to Crickley Hill Country Park, enhancing access to the stunning Cotswold landscape. This wheelchair-friendly route, constructed along the perimeter of National Star College, connects the iconic Cotswold Way directly to the park, providing students and the public with safe, independent access to one of the region’s most beautiful natural spots.
The initiative is part of the Connecting Parishes Project, inspired by discussions at a Gloucestershire Local Access Forum meeting and funded by National Highways. The project aimed to improve connectivity and accessibility in parishes impacted by the A417 missing link road works.
Following a feasibility study supported by National Highways, 18 improvement projects were launched, focusing on better surfaces, drainage, signage, and the removal of barriers such as narrow gates and stiles. After two years of collaboration with landowners, Cotswold National Landscape, Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, contractors, and volunteers, the new path at National Star College stands as the final achievement.
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Previously, students relying on wheelchairs required minibus transportation to reach Crickley Hill due to narrow paths along the adjacent road. Now, the accessible path allows them to explore the countryside independently, enjoy picnics on the hill, and connect more deeply with nature.
Elaine Hodgin, Sustainability Lead at National Star College, emphasizes the significance: “Our students are passionate about biodiversity and nature. This path not only gives them independence but also the opportunity to contribute to conserving the local environment.”
In the coming autumn, students will join community volunteers to plant saplings along the new path, supporting Gloucestershire’s goal of increasing woodland cover to 20% by 2030.
Joe Harris, Gloucestershire County Council’s Highways Maintenance and Communications lead, expressed gratitude to all involved. “We thank National Star College for enabling this scheme and all landowners, partners, and volunteers who helped create 680 metres of accessible pathway.”
This new route stands as a beacon of inclusion, sustainability, and community collaboration, enriching the lives of students and local residents alike.