THE STRAWBERRY LINE  -  HISTORY & BACKGROUND                                                                       as at May 2008

SUMMARY – to be expanded

The Strawberry Line railway opened to Shepton Mallet on Tuesday 9th November 1858 and was extended to Wells in 1862.

In 1869 the line reached Yatton through the Cheddar Valley.Part of the Great Western Railway. It followed the route below.

This became an important line for passengers and freight. It was also known as the Cheddar Valley Line.

The line transported Cheddar Cheese, other dairy produce, stone, and, of course, the famous Cheddar Strawberries from which it takes its name.

The line was busy for nearly a century until it was closed in 1965.

Since then the line from Cheddar to Yatton has been reclaimed by nature and is now a Local Nature Reserve. It is managed to protect and enhance a rich variety of wildlife habitats from ponds and wetlands to limestone grassland and dense scrub.

Work began converting the line from Cheddar to Yatton to a walking and cycling route in 1983 by volunteers from the Cheddar Valley Walk Society. Improvements are still being made to the route 25 years later.

Path Route extensions

There are many more projects planned to restore the line as a “Safe Path 4 All”. One of the most exciting being various route extensions. It is planned that the line will be extended north to Clevedon and on to Weston Super Mare and further east to Wells and on to Shepton Mallet and beyond to Cranmore.

Plans for branch line paths to Wedmore, Coxley, Horrington and Evercreech are also at an interesting stage, with much local support.

Plans are also being made for a scenic route on an old light railway to Congresbury via Wrington and Blagdon. Other plans for the future include various attractions, very much like the Winscombe Station, that will be based around the history of the line.

The roads in this part of Somerset are notorious for their danger to cyclists and pedestrians and it is vital that safe provision is made to Let Everyone Go Safely

(LEGS).  Insert photos of danger to cyclists and mobility user.

The Strawberry Line reformation would not be possible without the ongoing support from a variety of volunteers and organisations. Many local Councellors and Politicians have added their support in making important decisions to protect these communities and a vital part of our heritage. Economic benefits will be considerable and the Environment will be enhanced.

Vote now and make it happen

For conversion to wire frame.

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