New woodland pathway will ease traffic congestion at Padiham school

Pupils at Padiham Green Primary School were actively involved in the entire design process and have worked closely with Calico Homes and architects to utilise the previously unused woodland area by developing a green route to the school.

It officially opened to the pupils last week and is hoped to encourage the school children and parents to opt for a convenient, healthier option rather than driving to the school from the nearby New Calder Green estate, built by Calico Homes.

By taking a short walk through beautiful woodland on their way to school and back, pupils have the chance to enjoy a stroll in a safe, natural environment and help improve their wellbeing in the process.

Calico Homes also provided funding to upgrade fencing and a gate on the pathway, which is locked at night time to help keep the general area secure and safe.

Feedback from pupils has been positive so far.

Wendy Malone, assistant director of Neighbourhood Growth at Calico Homes, said: “The new path is a great example of us working with our community partners while at the same time promoting our company values of collaboration, well being and doing the right thing.”

Headteacher Mr Mark Dixon said: “Our new greenway path now provides a safe, off road route to school for all our children. Once they get onto the greenway from their homes, our families can walk, run or cycle all the way here.

“This is great for everyone's health and fitness if people start to use it and it's great for the environment too by both reducing traffic on the roads and the emissions they create. We are all trying to do our little bit. Huge thanks to Calico Homes for developing this access for us.”