Access has been improved at a Carlisle primary school thanks to a new-look footpath created by local affordable housing and regeneration developer Lovell.

The path at Newtown Community Primary School has been widened and resurfaced by Lovell for free. The company – currently building a new housing development near to the school – stepped in to replace an existing walkway which had seen better days with a brand-new asphalt footpath.

Pupils helped out at an event to mark its installation, including the unveiling of a plaque.

As well as making life easier for children and staff, the transformed walkway leading from the school playing fields to the back of the school building, will also provide improved access for wheelchair users using the school grounds. Lovell also teamed up with its landscape subcontractor Ashlea to fund new bark mulch for the school playground.

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Headteacher Fiona Manuel said: "Newtown pupils had been unable to use the outdoor climbing equipment for several months because there was insufficient bark covering. Lovell and Ashlea came to our rescue by supplying and laying new bark, enabling the children to play safely once more. An excellent result!

"Additionally, the newly laid footpath by Lovell has benefitted all members of the school community, including those who use our facilities after school hours, for example Mencap, Barnardo's and local football clubs. Community members with mobility and physical difficulties, now have ease of access around the building. Furthermore, pupils no longer have muddy shoes entering the school and consequently the whole indoor environment has improved too.

"We are absolutely delighted with the results of both endeavours and can’t thank each company enough for their excellent support."

(CD)