Work in Progress

The Bridge over the Stour. The bridge in the picture below right is the vital link between Blandford and Sturminster Newton.

The association of villages near and around Blandford, (known collectively as DT11) is anxious to see what can be done to re-instate the bridge and extend the Trailway between Shillingstone and Blandford. If this extension can be achieved people will be able walk, cycle or ride between the two towns. The Trailway is part of DCC transport plan and we have been fortunate that so much progress has been made in spite of shortages of funds.

Above: A bridge not far enough

Blandford to Charlton Marshall

The latest section of the Trailway to be opened is between Charlton Marshall and Blandford. The track does not always run along the old railway because there are places where a field has been established over the track but they run almost parallel. Unfortunately the Trailway does not land up on the Blandford bypass roundabout at Blandford St. Mary, but stops a few metres short of it. Where the Trailway runs inside the hedge beside the A350 it has been barred to prevent people going over those last few metres. It is a lovely walk or cycle but it is really spoilt by the last few hundred yards. Were these last few yards to be surfaced and opened; children could walk to Blandford St.Mary School and te DCC’s £50,000 would have been well spent.

You can access this part of the Trailway from Charlton Marshall Park Hill or from the lane opposite Lower Blandford St. Mary Church.

Above: Volunteers getting stuck in at Gains Cross, and below: job done!

For details of the Trailway Group activities

or for membership of the

'Friends of the Trailway Group'