Chess Access Project - 'Two Rivers Walk'

Chess Access Project – ‘Two Rivers Walk’

Background

The Chilterns National Landscape team and the Chiltern Society have been working with Sustrans to identify a new and accessible walking routes in the River Chess catchment. This collaboration forms part of the Smarter Water Catchment Programme funded by Thames Water.

In February 2023 we developed and published the River Chess Access Strategy. This lead to a stakeholder workshop in July 2023, to look at options for new routes in or through the catchment. The local knowledge and input of this group helped us to develop a River Chess Catchment Access Improvement Plan, published in March 2024. With the main recommendation to develop a new, more accessible walking route between the River Misbourne and the River Chess called the Two Rivers Walk.

The walk between Chesham & Old Amersham has been assessed be the most deliverable (complexity, scope and cost) and impactful (likely increases in user numbers). This new route aims to connect town centres and public transport hubs along with schools and places of work whilst improving access to existing public rights of way and greenspaces. Work has commenced to gain a fuller picture of the route and requirement needed for a multitude of users.

Chilterns ANOB

Your opinion matters: Online survey

We have launched a 5-minute online survey to gather feedback on the idea from local people. Two Rivers Walk aims to connect up Old Amersham, Amersham, Chesham Bois and Chesham High Street using existing footpaths and bridleways. The route would be designed to be accessible to all legitimate users all year round. This survey closes on Saturday 30th November 2024.

Survey link: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/sustrans/two-rivers-walk-engagement-survey

We would be extremely grateful if you could take the time to complete the survey offering your views, local knowledge and opinions to help us inform our decisions and the shape of the project as it develops.

Chilterns ANOB

What happens next?

  • On Saturday 19th October we will be out on the route talking to people in person (weather dependent)
  • We will continue to engage with the stakeholder group and our partners at both the Chilterns National Landscape team and the Chiltern Society.

Timeline of actions

  1. Launch online survey & gather feedback in person –  October 2024
  2. Produce concept designs based on feedback – November-December 2024
  3. Design recommendations will be provided by Sustrans to Chilterns National Landscape team – February 2025