The Sutton Coldfield ‘spine’ of the North Birmingham Cycling and Walking Route was officially opened on Monday, and I met with the ‘Friends of Rectory Park’ as part of the day long celebrations. The new off-road route runs from Newhall Valley Country Park to Penns Lane, and from Rectory Park to Good Hope Hospital.

It was great to see so many people enjoying the day, and the Connect 2 Steering Group has clearly done a fantastic job of overseeing the new sections of route. Not only does the scheme link together some key local areas, it also really opens up pedestrian and cycle access to our local parks. The next stage should see the network joining the town centre and extending further into the city.