Suffolk's longest riverside walk is now fully open

Why it matters: Suffolk County Council has finished improvement works at Creeting St Peter and Sproughton, making the route safer, more accessible and more resilient to flooding, while reopening the full length of the path.

The details: The route connects Stowmarket and Ipswich railway stations, passing Needham Market station along the way, and links into a wider network of walking routes across Suffolk.

• At Creeting St Peter, wooden footbridges and boardwalks have been upgraded with new recycled plastic versions.
• At Sproughton, work included riverbank repairs, path widening, accessible ramps and a new footbridge.
• The improvements have also unlocked the Mills and Meadow walk, taking in Bramford and Sproughton.

For context: The River Gipping has a long history of navigation. In 1793, the river was canalised with the construction of 15 locks, helping barges travel between Stowmarket and Ipswich and supporting the area's industrial development. The path follows the route of the old tow path to Ipswich.

What they're saying: Councillor Morgan Brobyn, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for food, waste and rural affairs, said: "The improvements at Creeting St Peter and Sproughton will make a real difference for walkers and local communities, helping to protect the path from future flooding and erosion while improving access to some of Suffolk's most attractive riverside countryside."

He added: "Not only has the work opened up the entirety of Gipping Valley River Path, it has also unlocked the Mills and Meadow walk which takes in Bramford and Sproughton.

"Our Public Rights of Way team has worked hard to deliver these improvements, along with the support of landowners and The River Gipping Trust, whose volunteers help to restore and improve the path."

The bigger picture: The project was delivered through a partnership involving local authorities, contractors, parish councils, landowners and volunteers. Works at Creeting St Peter were funded through Community Infrastructure Levy funding via Mid Suffolk District Council, and funding from Bluespaces, and delivered by Mortimer Contracts. Works at Sproughton were funded through Active Travel funding and delivered by Greenways Countryside Project, with support from Bramford Parish Council.

The bottom line: Walkers and local communities can once again enjoy the full 17-mile Gipping Valley River Path, connecting communities, wildlife habitats and local heritage along the River Gipping.

More information on the Gipping Valley River Path and other walks is available on the Discover Suffolk website.

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