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Burton Marshes -

Superb cycle crossing of the River Dee

After years of delay there will be much celebration at the opening of this valuable crossing of the river Dee between Shotton, Flintshire, and Ness on the Wirral peninsula. For those travelling along the coastline from the west, this new cycle route avoids Queensferry and its high volume traffic system. Apart from its benefits for leisure cyclists, it will also be very useful for those who commute to work but would prefer to ride a bike than drive a car.

This is a notable example of a coming together, not only of the local authorities on each side of the Welsh and English boundary, but also such as the RSPB and the Ministry of Defence, not to mention the ever present Sustrans, without which the 13,000 mile National Cycle Network would be but a shadow of what we see today.

There are other parties to whom credit should be extended, but we leave that for the official announcements and launch date, yet to be announced. In the meantime the route is now in use, its value need and popularity not in doubt.

From the English side the route is accessed via the RSPB Reserve entrance gate on Station Road, Burton, or from the village of Puddington.

On the Welsh side access is gained from National Cycle Route 5 (Chester – Connah’s Quay via Blacon route) via Deeside Industrial Zones 3&4 – keep an eye open for the temporary way marking.

Overcoming the problem of marshland

Take care on the cattle grid in wet conditions

The distinctive red sandstone feature of Burton Point. See the fascinating history http://www.oldwirral.com/burton_point.html

View of the Welsh hills from the marshes

Son of a former Chester Sealand Golf Club professional, Ron (R), was born in what used to be the club house, over which part of the route now runs. For an understanding of the locality, see this latterday club’s history at http://www.golfsmissinglinks.co.uk/index.php/england/north-west/cheshire/491-manc-chester-sealand-golf-club

Exploring the Burton marshes cycle route, the English step to one side to allow the Welsh ladies onto the Hawarden bridge. Alive and well is the age of chivalry!

 

RSPB Volunteers agree with Sustrans Cymru Manager Glyn Evans and his wife Susan and children Maisie and Owen, that the Burton Greenway deserves the thumbs up.

Alan Parker of Bebington has a YouTube video and photos of the route here and of the official opening on 18th July 2013 here.

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