The Caldew Valley is a well used recreational route for walkers, cyclists and fishermen. Alongside its natural beauty, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife and has a fascinating history. The design of Caldew River Corridor will further enhance the sense of place and complement local landscape character.
At the southern end of the proposed path from the Caldew Crossing Bridge to the Caldew Valley footway and cycleway, a simple yet effective area of ornamental planting and three individual trees, large natural stone and smooth boulders. Further down the path, where there will be long distance views across the valley, three durable timber benches will be included.
The Caldew Crossing bridge is designed with three span design to allow the Caldew River to move naturally and freely within the floodplain, reducing impact on floodplain. This design has helped the intent of limiting the impact on original surroundings by construction, therefore limited the need for replanting in the natural surroundings.
Where the impact of construction has happened, we have translocated the soil and trees where possible. The embankments are planted with woodland trees and scrub planting. The Lonsdale Pond is planted with aquatic plants and is surrounded by species-rich grassland, making it a valuable pond for wildlife biodiversity.