WORK to improve a footpath that links two parts of a village has been completed.

The Battery Path is an important footpath that connects the two settlements of Pelton Fell, near Chester-le-Street, and forms part of the designated safe route to Roseberry Primary School at neighbouring Newfield.

The project, which was funded from the neighbourhood budgets of local Durham County Council members Simon Henig and Councillor Linda Marshall, was designed to create a safer, more attractive route for pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists. Improvements have included upgrading the path to a bridleway, improving three informal paths that allow access to adjacent copses, controlling access at both ends of the path to deter use by vehicles, and the provision of a rest area with seating and artwork.

Pelton Fell Community Partnership worked with Groundwork North-East and Cumbria, Durham County Council and Chester-le-Street and District Area Action Partnership to develop the project and the physical works were carried out by Groundwork’s Land Services Team.

Local artist Jim Roberts worked closely with members of the local history group and the youth groups that meet at the Brockwell Centre to design two seats and an interpretation panel.

This rest area overlooks the former colliery and has spectacular views to Penshaw Monument.

The interpretation panel describes the colliery, which closed in 1964, and also bears the names of the 24 people who lost their lives in the 1866 disaster.

Keith Lines, Chairman of Pelton Fell Community Partnership, said: “We are delighted that the works to improve the Battery Path are now complete.

“We ask that members of the local community help us to look after the area into the future by reporting any problems.’”