Get fit the ‘Washington Way’ with new jogging and cycling routes

A network of paths and routes are open for people to walk, run and cycle through.

Local councillors and community groups have come together to promote the healthy message as part of the Washington Way to Well Being programme.

Supported and funded through the Washington Area Committee, the main aim of the project is to develop initiatives to tackle health issues and help residents become more active by using local green spaces.

Coun John Kelly, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for public health, wellness and culture, said: “The development of the Washington Way makes it easier for local people to walk, run and cycle and access Washington’s beautiful green spaces, wildlife and key heritage attractions.

“This fantastic project links to a broader approach to tackling health issues cross the area by encouraging use of this free resource. By creating improved shared links between the villages of Washington the local community can access a wide range of services and leisure facilities, including the new leisure centre, without having to take the car.”

Washington Area Committee approved more than £100,000 of funding to improve and extend the network. It is estimated that using the network, all parts of Washington will be within 15 minutes walk of the Galleries shopping area.

Coun Linda Williams, chairman of the Washington Area Committee added: “It is great to see the project at this exciting stage. As a group we recognised that we had a fantastic opportunity to make a great positive change with this project.”