Instructions accomplished: Creating the National Cycle Network's first wheel-friendly cobblestones
In a historic moment for Temple Newsam Estate near Leeds, a new accessible path has been launched on 20th July. The project, which aims to create a smooth surface for wheelchairs, buggies, and cycles while preserving the estate's historic character, has been a collaborative effort involving various experts and organisations.
The modification process involved "filing down" the cobblestones to create a smoother surface, thus preserving the historic aspect of the cobblestones [1]. An historic carriageway, which had been grassed over, was also reinstated as part of the accessible route, providing a glimpse into the past for modern visitors [1].
The new path starts outside Temple Newsam House and runs through the estate, connecting with National Cycle Network Route 66. It includes new directional signage to aid navigation [1].
During the construction, an unexpected archaeological discovery was made: a stable building along the former path, dating back to the mid-18th century [1]. The route south of the house follows the lines of a former carriageway that once linked to laborers' lodges on the East Avenue.
Diggers found brick foundation walls, sandstone foundations, fragments of pottery, and earthenware during the construction. These items have been sent to a local specialist for further examination and will be stored at a local museum or archive [1].
The teams collaborated with heritage experts at Temple Newsam House and Historic England throughout the project. They also consulted with designers at reShaped Landscape Architecture for advice on making the cobbles accessible. The cobblestones were grouted then ground down with a machine as part of the work [1].
The new route is the first phase of an accessible walking, wheeling, and cycling route, funded by National Highways. It is a 400-meter path from Temple Newsam to Rothwell, with a 28-meter strip of the cobbled area now accessible for mobility aids, prams, and cycles [1].
Interestingly, Temple Newsam House was the birthplace of Henry Stuart (Lord Darnley), husband of Mary Queen of Scots. The grounds were shaped by Capability Brown in the 18th century [1].
Partnership work was key to the success of the new route project. CFA Archaeology was commissioned to monitor the construction work for potential archaeological finds, marking the first time the organisation has attempted making an accessible surface over cobblestones [1].
This innovative project not only enhances accessibility but also respects the historic nature of the Temple Newsam Estate, which dates back to Henry VIII. The estate continues to attract visitors and offer a glimpse into its rich history, now more accessible than ever before.
[1] - Information sourced from the official press release by Leeds City Council.
The innovative path, part of a larger accessible walking, wheeling, and cycling route, not only enriches accessibility but also preserves the estate's historic character, as demonstrated through the reinstated historic carriageway and the meticulous filing down of the cobblestones. This home-and-garden project, extending from Temple Newsam House to Rothwell, offers a fusion of modern accessibility and the estate's 16th-century origins, providing a unique lifestyle experience for all visitors.
