More Days Out News
-
Festive season sparkles at The Belfry
Posted on Mon 09 Nov
-
Spectacular poppy display on view at Coughton Court
Posted on Wed 04 Nov
-
Christmas is steaming ahead at Severn Valley Railway
Posted on Wed 04 Nov
Visitors to Cannock Chase can enjoy improved walking routes, a new viewing platform and 15 artist-designed benches following the completion of a community-led project.
The Cannock Chase Wayfinding Project, funded by Sport England through the National Lottery, has been delivered in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, Together Active, Cannock Chase District Council and Hednesford Town Council, with additional funding from Cannock Chase National Landscape.
The project aims to make the area more accessible and encourage local communities to get outdoors, enjoy nature and explore the National Landscape.
As part of the improvements, a half-mile circular path between Brindley Heath Road car park and Marquis Drive Visitor Centre has been resurfaced, with 15 new benches installed along the route. A further 1km trail runs from Camp Field car park to a new viewing platform overlooking Brindley Heath, which was completed last autumn.
Each bench has been designed by local artists in collaboration with schools and community groups, with artwork celebrating the area's wildlife and heritage. Designs feature subjects including nightjars, deer, adders, miners' Davy lamps and the War Memorial.
Created with input from 250 local residents, the benches also feature QR codes which visitors can scan to discover stories about Cannock Chase's history, information about local wildlife and wellbeing tips. Some have also been designed with adjustable sections to make them more accessible to wheelchair users.
Patrick Allen, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said the benches offered visitors an opportunity to enjoy the surroundings while learning more about the area's heritage.
He also praised the involvement of local artists and residents in bringing the project to life.
Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Executive Director of Partnerships and Place at Sport England, added that the project demonstrated the importance of involving local communities in creating welcoming places where people can get active and enjoy the outdoors.