CYCLE fanatics are hoping a newly-opened cycle path in Warminster will encourage more people to increase the number of journeys they make on a bike.

The cycle path, which was officially opened on Thursday, is situated between Newopaul Way and Portway Lane and replaces a surface that, particularly in winter months, was very muddy and difficult to use safely.

The newly-surfaced path is for both pedestrians and cyclists and also has new street lighting to further improve safety, giving cyclists and pedestrians a safe journey all year round.

The project is part of Wiltshire Council’s Connect-ing Wiltshire programme with funding from the Govern-ment’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund.

Colin French, from the Warminster Cycle Group, said: “This long-awaited new route is the result of the group working with the town council, Wiltshire Council, Sustrans and local the people who will be the main beneficiaries of this useful link.

“The group predicts that the route will be well used and it hopes to see an increase in the number of journeys where the bicycle is chosen as a means of transport to and from work.

“The name Glovers Lane was chosen in recognition of the long connection with Dents and the town. We’re also very pleased with the high quality of the work done.”

The Connecting Wiltshire programme launched the new TransWilts rail service and has delivered other important transport measures, including improved cycle parking at railway stations.

Last year, Connecting Wiltshire also converted and upgraded Bartholomew Lane to a shared use path, which, in combination with the new path, provides a much safer and more convenient route to both Warminster town centre and the rail station.

Horace Prickett, Wiltshire Council portfolio holder for transport, said: “I’m delighted with this new path. Cycling has become really popular, and cycling to the rail station will make people’s journey quick and more affordable.

“The support of the community in Warminster has really helped make these improvements possible.”

An online journey planner and a map of cycling routes across Warminster can be downloaded at www.connectingwiltshire.co.uk