From Demand to Support to People Power
Our Journey So Far
As we step into 2026, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of the Wharfedale Greenway campaign. From grassroots demand to widespread support and now a groundswell of people power, each year has brought us closer to a shared vision: a safe, sustainable, and accessible greenway for all.
💭 2020: The Dream is Reborn
In 2020, a small group of people came together to support the dream of there being a safe, traffic free route across the Wharfe Valley. The idea had been around for a number of years, with various activities taking place aiming to inform development of the route. Friends of Wharfedale Greenway group was created to add a public voice to the campaign and support route development where possible.
🚶♂️ 2023: The Year of Demand
In 2023, the call for a connected, car-free route through Wharfedale grew louder. Local residents, and community groups voiced their desire for safer walking and cycling options through our first public consultation. 1705 responses showed that 95% supported the creation of the Wharfedale Greenway – a clear signal that the community was ready. This would demonstrate that demand was there.
🌱 2024: Building Support
2024 was the year we turned demand into momentum. Presenting our results of our public consultation we gained support from our local MP’s and other political groups – an important step in driving the project forward. Our volunteer network expanded as we hosted our first Greenway Volunteer Day – a celebration of active travel, biodiversity, and progress made so far.
💚 2025: People Power in Action
This past year has been extraordinary. The new volunteers brought the right set of skills that we needed to move on to the next stage in developing the Greenway. We began to host volunteer days, making incremental improvements to the potential route to make it easier to use, we began the creation of a business plan, needed to present to officials. The Greenway is no longer just an idea; it’s a shared mission.
🔜 What’s Next?
2026 is the year we move from having ideas to planning and delivery of a business plan. With route plans progressing and funding pathways opening up, we’re ready to turn vision into reality. But we’ll need every ounce of people power to get there – so whether you’re a seasoned supporter or a first-time visitor, there’s a place for you on the path.
Let’s keep walking forward – together.
For more updates on the Wharfedale Greenway, our next event and how you can get involved, visit the Friends of Wharfedale Greenway website.
What can you do?
Supporting Friends of Wharfedale Greenway is easy and impactful!
Follow us on social media: By following us on social media, liking our posts, and sharing our content, you help spread awareness and build momentum for our community-driven initiative. Every share brings us closer to expanding active travel opportunities and improving local infrastructure. Our social media channels are below.
Donate to our group: While we’re not funding the physical construction of the Greenway, your donation—however small—will help us cover our essential costs, from advocacy efforts to community events and outreach. Find out how you can donate to FoWG.
Sign up to our mailing list: By signing up for our news updates, you’ll stay informed about our latest progress, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.
Join us in shaping a greener, more connected future—your engagement makes all the difference!