THE final phase to regenerate a historic walkway can now start after funding has been secured.
The Gatherums and Springside Regeneration project in Louth has launched phase two of their project, which will finally see the completion of the restored walkway from Aswell Street, through the Gatherums and to Church Street.
The project is now able to be completed after East Lindsey District Council successfully applied for a compulsory purchase order for the west end area of the land.
Now that has been successful, it has helped secure £63,600 of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The project has also attracted financial donations from Louth Town Council, East Lindsey District Council and more than £23,000 from Lincolnshire County Council as well as other contributions.
The area due to be completed is accessed from Aswell Street from the historic horse steps – thought to be the only ones remaining in Lincolnshire.
The area also includes the historically important Aswell Spring and St Helen's Spring.
Historian Jean Howard said: "We were not able to proceed with the whole project from the outset as nobody seemed to own the area at the west end. We could not get the grant funding if there was no owner.
"Thanks to East Lindsey District Council's help, we are now able to continue."
The volunteer-led regeneration project started in 2004 and includes an art trail, regrading of slopes, resurfacing and widening of the path, lighting, public art and name plates for the different access points.
The project also aims to educate about this historic part of the town and to promote the local heritage.
To combine with the town's Victorian Fair on Sunday, October 20, the group will be running a series of events to demonstrate the historical importance of the area at the Gatherums and Salvation Army Hall.
The group is also wanting local people to come forward to provide evidence of use of the paths so they can be officially recorded on the definitive map as a public right of way.
Work could start on site this November and be completed by May.
Chairman Fran Treanor said: "This group has put in a lot of hard work as volunteers to clear up a very ugly grotspot in Louth which is sadly in need of regeneration.
"It will be great to see people next year walk across it in comfort and safety."
The project has also involved students from Monk's Dyke Tennyson College who have created a dedicated website to document the Gatherums' progress.
The website – www.gatherumsandspringside.org.uk is now live.
The group needs ongoing support whether it be through a financial donation, volunteer help or donation of materials. To help, call 01507 606678.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter