Arran Trail

Blackburn with Darwen Council (BwDC) is investing £30m to improve the area around Junction 5 of the M65, making it easier for people to get around and encouraging walking, wheeling and cycling. The Arran Trail is the first of six active travel routes to be upgraded and reopened in South East Blackburn.

BwDC appointed Bethell to deliver a programme of works to improve the 2.72km Arran Trail, which links Guide with Shadsworth. Works included resurfacing the footpath and cycleway, installing piped culverts, ducting and chambers, upgrading street lighting, full site clearance and vegetation removal. The improvements will create a safer, more accessible and more resilient route for everyday sustainable travel.

The works on this project included:

  • 300m3 of excavation/levelling and disposal
  • Removal of three pedestrian footbridges safely from site
  • 6282m2 of type 1 sub-base laid
  • 6282m2 of Asphalt Binder course laid
  • 185m of timber post and 4-rail fencing
  • Two Althon headwalls and culvert crossings
  • 77 no. 4m high lighting columns
  • Rebuilding of access gates/walling in 5-6 locations to prevent vehicular access

In addition to delivering this package of works, Bethell donated a public bike-fixing station at the end of the route, which is equipped with tools for emergency repairs. In partnership with Living Streets, we visited a local school to promote the benefits of active travel and highlight the enhancements created along the route. Currently, 36% of adults and children aged 5–16 in Blackburn do less than 30 minutes of physical activity per week. This scheme aims to promote activity and widen opportunities for healthier journeys.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of BwDC and Executive Member for Growth and Development, said: “Reopening the Arran Trail is just the first step in our ongoing programme to improve active travel routes across South East Blackburn. In total, the scheme will deliver around 16 kilometres of upgraded walking and cycling paths, giving residents better access to local amenities and opportunities, increasing physical activity, and reducing the number of vehicle trips on local roads. Residents tell us that improving how they get around the borough is incredibly important, so we’re delighted to bring this project forward.”

Residents tell us that improving how they get around the borough is incredibly important, so we’re delighted to bring this project forward.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of BwDC and Executive Member for Growth and Development

Gary Hunt, Contracts Manager at Bethell, added: “Delivering a safer walking and cycling route that connects the community has been hugely rewarding. This project not only enhances safety but also supports healthier, more sustainable ways for local people to travel. It has been a pleasure to work with Blackburn with Darwen Council to make it a reality.”

Delivering a safer walking and cycling route that connects the community has been hugely rewarding. This project not only enhances safety but also supports healthier, more sustainable ways for local people to travel.

Gary Hunt, Contracts Manager, Bethell Construction