Pathway to Suffolk school upgraded ready for winter

Charles Church Suffolk has teamed up with a groundwork contractor to upgrade a well-used path in Exning.

Cllr Jon London, who represents Exning on West Suffolk Council, appealed to Suffolk region for help after the pathway between Princes Close and Exning Primary School was left to fall into a state of disrepair. 

He was keen to see the path upgraded with potholes filled in and the often-muddy walk way to be covered with gravel to make it more accessible year-round. 

The business is currently building the second phase of their Charles Church homes at Chancery Park on the edge of the village and were keen to help the local community to continue using this walkway. 

We worked in partnership with groundwork contractors Tamdown Group to complete the work during the school half term break, reducing disruption for local families. 

Cllr London said: “This has been a long-term issue here in Exning. Last year I was successful in getting Suffolk County Council to resurface the section of path between the school and Stepping Stones.   

“After a year of negotiation the county council granted permission for the remainder to be resurfaced but they did not have the budget to complete the work. I am incredibly thankful for Persimmon and Tamdown for stepping in.” 

Ian Hamilton, Managing Director of Suffolk region, said: “We want to play a key role within the communities in which we are building, and we are always keen to encourage sustainable travel options. By resurfacing the path we were able to show our commitment to the wider community in Exning and encourage even more children to walk to school.” 

Stuart Parrish, Senior Contracts Manager for Tamdown Group, said: “The path was not fit for purpose and we know the children were having to dodge muddy puddles each morning on their way to school. We were delighted to be able to work on this project to give them a safer, cleaner route to school.”