Routes for the less mobile

 

Most authorities – and Suffolk CC is no exception – are now making an effort to increase the number of off-road routes in the countryside that can be used by people with mobility problems.

 

Very many walkers experience considerable difficulties in negotiating stiles and the authority is working hard to secure the removal of as many as possible – encouraging land owners to replace them with gates if some kind of barrier is really needed.  

 

A more substantial problem faces people who are confined to wheelchairs or electric mobility scooters. For such users, the major problem is the nature of the surface and - especially for those pushing wheelchairs - this needs to be both firm and smooth. Loose gravel or damp grass may look fine, but can prove almost unusable.

 

Suffolk RA is attempting to create a list of routes which are suitable for use by people in wheelchairs and/or on electric scooters. We hope this list will grow steadily and would welcome all suggestions for additions to our list.

 

As a first small sample, the following may be worth  trying out. The maps give additional details :-

 

The maps below are in PDF format & may be viewed using the free Adobe Reader downloadable from Adobe.

The maps will open in a new window & may take some time to open on a slow connection. If you wish to download the file then right click the link & select "Save Target As".

 

 

1.  The footpath along the River Lark from Mildenhall to Barton Mills

 

2.  Some of the paths in Ickworth Park

 

3.  A couple of connecting paths at Long Melford

 

4.  A  varied circular route at Santon Downham

 

5. A permissive path at Thornham Magna