A PROPOSAL to build a boardwalk through Swanvale Community Woodland has been given conditional approval by Cornwall Council planners.

The application from Falmouth Town Council to build the boardwalk said that there is currently currently limited access through the wet woodland near Swanpool and it remains largely unused and unseen.

It said while the project falls outside of all Tree Preservation and Conservation Areas, the area adjoins the Swanvale Nature Reserve and the preservation and enhancement of the local flora and fauna is of utmost concern.

The proposed footpath would open up the natural area for enjoyment and leisure while also providing safe/off-road access from the town to Swanpool and on toward the coast. The boardwalk will run for 170 metres with a width of two meters.

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The proposed design of the boardwalk has been created to fit subtly within the woodland area, with composite timber making up a large portion of the construction. The colour will be brown, grey and black. It said the design has been created to have minimal impact on the surrounding woodland.

In a design and access statement Hornann Architects said the proposal will open up a community woodland area for public enjoyment. "This has become increasingly pertinent with regard to people’s wellbeing over the past year of COVID-19 restrictions."

The application had been supported by The Ramblers Cornwall which said: "We fully support this proposal which will give local residents and others good access to enjoy the semi natural environment of the valley bottom.

"It will also provide a through route linking with other nearby public paths to destinations further up and down the valley and is likely to be very well used."