23/03/2023: New investment for Dereham's Neatherd Moor

A new footpath has been installed on Shillings Lane, going around the boundaries of Neatherd Moor in Dereham, making this beauty spot more accessible for residents and visitors. 

Funded by Dereham Town Council, with contributions from Breckland Council's Market Town Initiative project,  Norfolk County Council Parish Partnership funding, and Norfolk County Councillor Will Richmond's Local Members Fund, the new pathway has been built from recycled materials. The pathway, which is now fully installed, aims to offer increased access to the Moor with a natural surface ideal for walkers, cyclists and runners. 

Cllr Hugh King, Mayor of Dereham said "I am pleased that, with the help of our partners, we have been able to get this work completed ready for spring. The Neatherd is a great asset for the Town and well loved by our residents. The new path will help even more people enjoy this fabulous natural beauty spot in Dereham". 

Cllr Paul Claussen, Breckland Council's Executive Member for Economic Development and Growth commented: "I am delighted to support this project and commit Market Town Initiative funding for this new pathway. It's incredibly important that we all look after our wellbeing. Being in nature and enjoying a walk in the fresh air helps maintain not only our physical health, but also our mental health. This investment will ensure more people have that opportunity to get out in nature, be active locally and maintain healthy routines to maintain their wellbeing." 

Cllr Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, said: "This is a good example of partners working together to provide a valuable asset to the Town which hopefully will encourage residents to be active and at the same time enjoy nature. Thanks to everyone involved."

Cllr Linda Monument, Cllr Philip Duigan, Cllr Harry Clarke, Cllr Philip Morton and Cllr Alison Webb, Breckland Council Dereham Ward Members, commented:  "We were pleased to support the use of the Dereham market town initiative fund to support the installation of this new pathway which will help open up Neatherd Moor to residents and visitors".