Recreation
Breadcrumbs
Conclusion
Summary of findings from seminars held in each demonstration area
A great deal has been achieved by all of the demonstration projects
under a variety of circumstances. Essential elements of a "good"
Greenways project are:
- A carefully selected partnership with a clear vision;
- SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-related) objectives and a checklist/process to follow;
- Good communication: within the partnership and outside of it;
- Access to the relevant expertise and knowledge;
- Good co-ordination and clear processes;
- Ability to learn from mistakes and adapt to changing circumstances;
- Inclusion in the right strategies and policies;
- Proper research;
- A Strategy and Action Plan;
- A high level of community and user involvement;
- Ability to influence organisations and authorities and access funding.
The role of Greenways as part of a wider network is important. Some of the demonstration projects have questioned the value of separating out Greenways from the rest of the network, especially as Greenways have no legal definition or standing.
It is therefore not surprising that in some of the demonstration projects work on Greenways is being subsumed into existing posts and work areas, mainly into Rights of Way, access and sustainable transport. This is desirable as long as the lessons learned are taken with them, and used to influence work in these areas more widely.
