A new ‘National River Walk’ – 21km long – is to be created in Greater Manchester It’s part of a government scheme to get more people out and experiencing nature.

The route will run from Stockport town centre to Ashton-upon-Mersey, in Trafford, passing through Sale Water Park on the edge of the River Mersey.

The route will be dubbed the Mersey Valley Way. It will be designated a ‘National River Walk’. New signs will direct walkers, while stretches of the existing river path will be upgraded to meet standards for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, prams, cyclists and horse-riders.

People look at the high water levels along the River Mersey during Storm Christoph in January 2021 | Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

placeholder image — People look at the high water levels along the River Mersey during Storm Christoph in January 2021 | Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

Its national status will also allow for guided walks and chances to volunteer on nature recovery work in the area.

Mersey Valley Way is the first to be announced of nine new ‘National River Walks’ pledged by the government – one for each region of the country – as part of an effort to improve access to nature throughout England. Three new National Forests have also been promised by Westminster.

A consultation, in which people can have their say, is expected soon. A competition between children at 50 schools to design the new logo for the route is underway, with a winner to be announced next month.

Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s executive member for climate change said: “We’re delighted that our borough will provide the beautiful waterside location for part of the Mersey Valley Way and look forward to seeing its development to become a valuable resource for thousands of people to enjoy.”

Grace Baynham, Stockport Council’s cabinet member for parks, highways and transport services, added: “The announcement of the Mersey Valley Way as the first National River Walk is fantastic news for Stockport and the wider region. This project will open up new opportunities for our residents to enjoy nature, improve their health and wellbeing, and support local businesses along this already incredibly popular route.

“We’re proud to be working with partners locally and nationally to make our green spaces more accessible and inclusive, ensuring everyone – regardless of age or background – can benefit from the outdoors.”

The government’s access minister Baroness Hayman said: “Nature is a huge source of pride and enjoyment for people across the country, but too many people struggle to find ways to access the outdoors. We are changing that today, delivering on our manifesto pledge by launching the first of nine new national river walks, boosting opportunities to be in nature and supporting local businesses that line the routes.”