A new bridleway is to be created to complete the missing link between Helston and Porthleven thanks to a grant of of more than £32,000.

The route from Porthleven into Penrose is popular with residents, who currently use Shrubberies Hill lane to access the estate at Penrose Hill.

However, the South Kerrier Alliance, which is behind the project, said the lane is narrow with high hedges and no footpath with frequent traffic making it a difficult and dangerous route.

It is said that creating the new route will enable safe access and, importantly, complete the missing part of a direct bridleway link between Helston and this part of Porthleven, benefitting walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

The exact route of the new pathway is still to be finalised, and subject to planning permission, but is likely to follow part of an original lane used in the 1800s by Porthleveners to walk to work in the Penrose Estate.

Access will be at the corner of Shrubberies Hill and Coopers Lane and the project involves additional hedge planting to benefit wildlife.

SKA has been awarded £32,645 from Cornwall Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Fund to create the multi–use bridleway link.

The community interest company is working with the National Trust, local farmer Martin Wallis, Porthleven Town Council and Helston Climate Action Group to finalise the proposal and submit a formal planning application.

Subject to permission, it is hoped the route will be completed in early 2022.

David Turnbull, director of SKA, said: “Working with the National Trust we’ve been able to develop a proposal which has gained Cornwall Council’s support for this much needed route.

"A bridleway link between Porthleven and Helston will be an asset for the local community and wider area, and provide a safe shared accessible route for walkers, horse riders and cyclists.”

Justin Whitehouse, National Trust general manager for the Lizard and Penrose, agreed: "This is an important link which will improve opportunities for people to access and enjoy Penrose safely. The past 12 months has really shown the value accessible green spaces for people, and thanks to the support of Martin Wallis, we are looking forward to seeing this plan move forward."

The National Trust and SKA are providing match funding to support the project.

It is one of 14 Cornwall Council funded projects aiming to boost greener living around Cornwall.

Since January 2019 the council has been charging developers the Community Infrastructure Levy to reduce any potential adverse effects resulting from new housing and other building projects.

SKA is based in and manages The Old Cattle Market building and Coronation Park in Helston plus supports local Farmers’ Markets and a range of community businesses across the South Kerrier area.