Sir Desmond Swayne opens new footpath installed in Milford by New Milton Sand and Ballast

A NEW public footpath has been officially opened in Milford by New Forest West MP Sir Desmond Swayne.

He unveiled the Downton Jubilee Walk in Milford, which was installed by New Milton Sand and Ballast as part of its land restoration project on a site adjacent to Downton Manor Quarry.

The quarry is currently undergoing extraction for minerals to create aggregates, concrete and other building products, and the surrounding area has seen the introduction of seven new lakes as part of efforts to increase biodiversity.

Sir Desmond said: “I am pleased to have been invited to attend this important opening in my constituency, unveiling the brand new plaque to mark the start of the Downton Jubilee Walk.

"This new public pathway will undoubtedly give local residents the opportunity to enjoy even more of our wonderful local wildlife and countryside.”

Rob Flower, managing director of New Milton Sand and Ballast, said: “This opening is a key milestone in the company's ongoing environmental enhancement and restoration of the Downton Manor Farm Quarry.

"We’re pleased to be providing public access for local residents to enjoy the benefits that our seven lakes and wildlife habitats can offer.

"It’s important that local residents can see the biodiverse impact that we are striving to achieve, and the opening of this walk marks an important part of the quarrying process and our commitment to our local community."

The footpath lets walkers observe wildlife including badgers, bumblebees, bats and several species of birds. It was named in honour of the Queen's platinum jubilee this year.