MORE than 200 people have so far responded to an online survey being carried out to gauge public support for a proposed Grand Western Greenway between Wellington and Taunton.

The project aims to create an eight-mile off-road route between the towns for walkers, cyclists, and wheelers.

It would use some of the historic Grand Western Canal and the main railway line corridor to link homes with schools, workplaces, healthcare, rail services, and local amenities.

A spokesperson said: “For many people, the proposed greenway may sound like a leisure project.

“In reality, it is something much more important, a safe and practical inter-urban route connecting Wellington, Taunton, and surrounding communities.

“Communities including Wellington, Norton Fitzwarren, Bradford-on-Tone, Nynehead, and Oake would gain a realistic alternative to short car journeys, helping reduce congestion while encouraging healthier and lower-carbon travel.

“What makes the greenway particularly valuable is its accessibility.”

The spokesperson said the greenway’s sealed, largely traffic-free surface would make it easier for:

They said: “Public support has been striking.

“Engagement work by Grand Western Greenway CIC, the community interest company behind the project, shows people increasingly see routes like this not simply as places to walk for leisure, but as everyday transport infrastructure connecting communities safely and sustainably.

“As Somerset continues to grow, projects such as the Grand Western Greenway offer an opportunity to think differently about transport.

“Rather than treating active travel as only an urban issue, we should recognise the value of connecting neighbouring towns and villages with attractive, practical, and environmentally responsible routes.

“The greenway is about reconnecting communities.

“It would create healthier, greener, and more resilient links between the places where people live, work, and travel every day.”