New coast path keeps Penrose walkers on track (From Falmouth Packet)

New coast path keeps Penrose walkers on track

1:00pm Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News

A new coast path route at Penrose is keeping walkers on track and away from coastal erosion.

The diversion along the South West Coast Path connecting Loe Bar to Porthleven was made necessary after the cliffs began to erode in stormy weather towards the end of last year.

Work has now been completed by National Trust Rangers and volunteers, together with students from the Tremough Campus at Penryn.

The project was jointly funded by the National Trust and the South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA), which who provided £2,000 to help divert the existing path around an area of cliff that is falling into the sea.

Steve Church from the SWCPA said: “The South West Coast Path Association is delighted to have helped the National Trust to provide this route, which will allow access for those of all abilities to this superb coastal site.”

He added that the work would added to the range of improvements along the path that are being funded by the association's Great South West Walk in April and May, to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

The work carried out by local National Trust volunteers was an opportunity for them to learn new skills and speak to the members of the public who use the path on a regular basis.

Beth Heasman, a trainee volunteer ranger with the National Trust, said: “It was great to be involved with a big project like this and learn new practical skills. It is always good to be able to talk to walkers about what we are doing and the sense of pride we have in our work. I'm sure people will enjoy using the new path.”

Ranger Greg Cross said adapting to coastal erosion was an important part of the trust's work, but the extended period of wet weather had seen a significant rise in cliff falls on trust land.

He added: “It has become an aspect of the job that we are spending an increasing amount of time planning for and dealing with. We are very grateful for the support of both the SWCPA and our amazing team of volunteers who work so hard to ensure this stunning route is kept open and well maintained for everyone to enjoy.”

Photos supplied. Captions: 1 - National Trust rangers and volunteers finishing work on the footpath diversion. 2 - Work is carried out to move the coastal footpath linking Loe Bar with Porthleven.