WITH the help of the Ministry of Defence more than a mile-and-a-half of new bridleway is being constructed along the edge of the Longmoor Ranges, providing a safe, off-road route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

This forms a key part of the final section of the Shipwrights Way, from Whitehill and Bordon via Greatham to Liss, and is expected to open in August.

The primary use of the Longmoor Ranges is for military training. Despite the departure of the Army barracks from Whitehill and Bordon, this use is increasing due to a combination of troops returning to the UK and relocation of vehicle training to Longmoor.

Bylaws permit access to the ranges on foot when training is not taking place but do not permit access by cycle or horse. There are few rights of way in the wider area.

Claire Hughes, head of communications and community at the district council, said: “This route will be the only off-road access for cyclists and horse riders leading south from Whitehill and Bordon into the South Downs National Park.

“We hope that people will use the Shipwrights Way to explore and enjoy the countryside and that rural pubs, shops and tourism businesses will benefit.”

The Shipwrights Way is a new 50-mile path for walkers, cyclists and, where possible, horseriders, linking the towns and villages of East Hampshire to the countryside on their doorstep. It runs from Alice Holt Forest southwards over the South Downs to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

The project is a partnership between the district council, county council, South Downs National Park Authority and the Forestry Commission.