New All-Weather Footpath to Improve Access Across King George V Field, Newland
Work will begin on 3 August on a much-needed new all-weather footpath across Witney’s King George V Field at Newland. The new path will provide a safe, durable route for pupils walking and cycling to and from Wood Green School, as well as local residents who regularly use the field as a shortcut.
The existing informal path is well used but often becomes muddy and difficult to negotiate during wet weather. The new surfaced footpath will ensure reliable year-round access for everyone using this popular route.
The footpath is the final stage of the Wood Green School expansion project, which was completed by Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) last month. The school has been expanded to meet increasing demand for pupil places resulting from new housing developments in the area. The expansion has been fully funded by the County Council through Section 106 developer contributions.
The school, managed by the Acer Trust, submitted its planning application for the new buildings in July 2024. During the planning consultation, the County Council’s Planning & Place team requested that a cycle and pedestrian route be included across the field to improve sustainable travel links.
Construction of the new path will be carried out by M Group, Oxfordshire County Council’s contractor, with work expected to be completed by the end of August.
The new footpath represents a lasting investment, providing a reliable all-weather route that will make everyday journeys safer and more convenient while encouraging walking and cycling.
Cllr Ruth Smith, Leader of Witney Town Council, who are custodians of the King George V field, said,
“This new path will keep feet cleaner and drier and allow more types of bikes and wheels to cross the field. It’s very welcome. It takes people past the community orchard at the top of the field, and it will also serve the community well as sports and the café at the Wood Green site expand outside of school hours.”