MORE than 40 locations across Coventry will benefit from new running and walking paths as part of a council initiative.
Pupils from Stoke Heath Primary school have helped open a new path around Stoke Heath Sports Ground.
The sports ground is known locally as Morris Common and teachers and children recently tried out the new route for the first time.
The ground has a new notice board while markers line the route designed to encourage people to be more active.
Community groups will also be able to post notices and highlight events, health information and other activities in the local neighbourhood on the new notice board.
Jeanette Hiatt, head teacher at Stoke Heath Primary School, said: “This is a great idea. Our pupils take part in lots of physical activity as part of the school curriculum and anything that encourages more of the community to get outdoors in their local area is a good thing.”
Morris Common is one of 44 locations across the city where run and walk markers are being installed by the council in parks and green spaces as part of a new initiative to encourage exercise.
The 1km run and walk path at Morris Common, and eight marker posts help people know the distance they have covered.
Stoke Heath resident, Edwina Jones, added: “It’s an excellent opportunity for walkers and runners to organise activities individually or in groups.
“Having a notice board is also a good way of encouraging us to get people more involved in the local neighbourhood, by highlighting what’s going on.”
The council says the scheme is being rolled out over the coming weeks in other areas of Coventry.
Residents of all ages are being encouraged to make use of the route whether they are a casual walker or a regular jogger.
Coun Kamran Caan, cabinet member for Public Health and Sport, said: “It’s surprising how much green space we have in the city and this development will encourage people to find a new way to exercise or just be more active in their local area.
“We all need to look after our health and maintain a healthier lifestyle. This is a citywide scheme.
“It’s free, and it would be fantastic if it could encourage more people to get outdoors using their parks and green spaces, trying something different and meeting new people.”
“Cities and towns throughout the country are looking at ways to introduce more accessible means of physical activity. That’s why this is so important.”
