THE findings of a travel and use survey for a planned Grand Western Greenway between Wellington and Taunton have been released to local councillors.

There were 284 responses which the community interest company (CIC) behind the project said provided strong evidence of public demand for a safe, traffic-free route between the towns and the communities in between.

CIC chairman Charles Biscoe said the most striking finding was 93.3 per cent of people said there was currently no safe and attractive active-travel route between the towns.

The survey also found 67.6 per cent felt the greenway would definitely replace some or many car journeys, while 71.1 per cent anticipated using it for at least one practical or everyday journey, and 78.9 per cent identified health and wellbeing as a major benefit.

Mr Biscoe said taken together, the findings showed the greenway should not be seen simply as ‘a leisure route’.

He said: “This survey gives a very clear message.

“People want to walk, wheel, and cycle between Wellington and Taunton, but they do not feel there is currently a safe and attractive way to do so.

“The greenway would address a real gap in local transport provision.

“What is particularly important is that people are not just talking about leisure use.

“They are telling us they would use the route for everyday journeys, to get to work, reach shops and services, connect with buses and rail, visit family, and improve their health.

“The case for the greenway is therefore about transport, public health, independence, access to nature, the local economy, and connecting communities.

“We hope the report will help Somerset Council and other partners recognise the route as strategic infrastructure for the Wellington and Taunton area.”

Mr Biscoe said the CIC was seeking continued dialogue with local councillors and potential partners to help move the project forward.