River Gipping path improvements complete as full 17-mile route reopens

Suffolk County Council has completed improvement works by the River Gipping at Creeting St Peter and Sproughton, making the route safer, more accessible and more resilient to flooding while reopening the full 17-mile Gipping Valley River Path.

Works at Creeting St Peter included upgrading wooden footbridges and boardwalks with new recycled plastic versions, while works at Sproughton included riverbank repairs, path widening, accessible ramps and a new footbridge.

The 17-mile route connects Stowmarket and Ipswich railway stations and passes Needham Market station, while linking to a wider network of walking routes across Suffolk.

The River Gipping has a long history of navigation. In 1793, the river was canalised with the construction of 15 locks, helping barges travel between Stowmarket and Ipswich and supporting the area's industrial development.

Councillor Morgan Brobyn, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Food, Waste and Rural Affairs, said:

“The improvements at Creeting St Peter and Sproughton will make a real difference for walkers and local communities, helping to protect the path from future flooding and erosion while improving access to some of Suffolk's most attractive riverside countryside.

“Not only has the work opened up the entirety of Gipping Valley River Path, it has also unlocked the Mills and Meadow walk which takes in Bramford and Sproughton.

“Our Public Rights of Way team has worked hard to deliver these improvements, along with the support of landowners and The River Gipping Trust, whose volunteers help to restore and improve the path which follows the route of the old tow path to Ipswich.”

The project was delivered through a partnership involving local authorities, contractors, parish councils, landowners and volunteers.

The completed works ensure residents and visitors can continue to enjoy one of Suffolk's most popular riverside walking routes, connecting communities, wildlife habitats and local heritage along the River Gipping.

For more information about the Gipping Valley River Path, and other walks, visit the Discover Suffolk website.