Focus of work
Paths are magical things. On the face of it they are incredibly simple – a route from A to B – but scratch the surface and there’s parallel worlds beneath. A path can open up access to nature for those who wouldn’t otherwise reach it. A path is a portal to transport, leisure time, health, wellbeing, and a thriving local economy. — Laura Laker
For this project, freelance journalist Laura Laker explored how communities can deliver local footpaths for walking and cycling. Through interviews with successful communities, local politicians and activists, Laura has developed a toolkit for how people can deliver local footpaths, the challenges they may face and how to overcome them.
Impact
Laura’s toolkit, Rural path campaigns: where magic meets tarmac, was well received by many following its launch in April 2026, from path campaigners to people working in Active Travel England and the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, local authority officers, and more. It is widely believed that it will help expedite the path building process and help people believe that their community’s dreams, too, can come true.
The toolkit identifies several overarching principles to help groups deliver local paths:
- Build positive relationships in the community.
- Find out what people’s priorities are and underline the links between the path and those priorities.
- Find a champion in the local authority.
- Keep your communications positive.
- Build a sense of progress and momentum to keep people interested.
- Use the resources you have to the best of your abilities.
- Be proactive with local media.
- Broaden your appeal.
- Understand community needs and concerns.