Heritage Way Rangers’ summer inspections found the route generally in excellent condition. Volunteers dealt with fallen branches, vegetation, litter, minor erosion and missing waymarkers to keep the 55-mile trail clear and well signed.

Paddle Peak volunteers cleaned the Derwent between Darley Dale and Artists Corner, removing traffic cones, tyres, buckets, bottles, cans and other rubbish from the river. Derbyshire Dales District Council then collected the material for disposal.

Friends of the Derwent walked the 56 miles from Ladybower Reservoir to Derwent Mouth to raise awareness of pollution in the River Derwent. The pilgrimage included a gathering at Belper River Gardens along the way.

Matlock Civic Association, Matlock Bath Development Association and the Derwent Valley Trust Cycleway Project have joined forces to seek funding for detailed design work on a traffic-free Matlock–Matlock Bath route. The scenic east-bank alignment must navigate river crossings, ancient woodland, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the World Heritage Site.

Work on the Belper West Bank route identified four surface treatments suited to different conditions: tarmac, compacted earth, Grassmat and boardwalk. The mix reflects flood risk, tree-root protection, wildlife habitat and the character of the riverside setting.

The footbridge across the River Derwent at Darley Abbey has been closed for the foreseeable future. A well-signposted diversion is in place, with thanks to Lubrizol for providing the signs.

DCC have committed £60K to a detailed study of the Matlock to High Peak Junction, as part of the White Peak Loop, while acknowledging this will also form part of the Derwent Valley Cycleway

We met with representatives of Civil Water Management to view their new porous surface material made from shredded tyres. This material does introduce some digging, as well as raised pathway surface level, so there remain challenges.

The planning application for the Belper West Bank section has been approved subject to conditions. Work is continuing on resolving those conditions and identifying possible funding support.