Thames Path link at Battlemead Common to open Saturday

[RBWM Press Release]

A network of footpaths, including a link to the Thames Path, will open this Saturday 3 August at Battlemead Common.

The 110 acres of land between Cookham and Maidenhead were purchased last December for �1 million to safeguard the open green space and improve access for residents and visitors, completing a missing link in the Millennium Walk route.

An opening walk will be held at 10:30am this Saturday, and members of ‘Friends of Battlemead Common’ have been invited, including wildlife groups, access groups, ward councillors and Cookham Parish Council.

Cllr Samantha Rayner, lead member for culture, communities and Windsor said: "I am delighted to see this green space improved for residents and visitors, while protecting the sensitive wildlife habitats all around Battlemead Common.

“This undeveloped boundary between the two settlements of Cookham and Maidenhead now links a number of footpaths, as well as being an attractive destination itself.

“It’s so important that we retain and improve the natural spaces in our borough, and recognise the benefits that these areas have on the health and well-being of our residents.”

A section that makes up about 40% of the space will be opened up for public use on permitted paths, which means large areas will remain protected for wild flowers and animals.

A small car park is also planned for visitors to Battlemead Common off Lower Cookham Road, but this is subject to planning permission.

The Thames Path, which is now linked to this space, runs from Kemble in Gloucestershire, to the Thames Barrier in Charlton, south east London, with a 23-mile stretch linking Henley and Windsor.

Within Battlemead Common are fields which had previously been used for farming, and part of the land is prone to flooding, acting as an ideal habitat for wintering wildfowl and waders.