A 15-year people power project to create an extensive picturesque network of woodland paths and bridleways on the Norfolk Broads will be officially opened on Friday.

A 15-year people power project to create an extensive picturesque network of woodland paths and bridleways on the Norfolk Broads will be officially opened on Friday.

Burlingham Woodland Walks, which starts at North Burlingham, comprises 24 new or restored woods, 10 new orchards, 10km of hedgerows and four wildflower meadows.

The walk, which also includes a sculpture trail and permissive bridlepaths, takes in Burlingham Green, the parishes of Lingwood, Acle and South Walsham.

In the last 15 years hundreds of local community volunteers, including brownies, cubs, the Acle Lands Trust and the Blofield and District Conservation Group, have helped to plant 80,000 trees and shrubs for the walk.

The project is the partnership between Norfolk County Council, the Forestry Commission, Broadland District Council and landowners and tenants.

Steve Scott, regional director of the Forestry Commission, said: “This woodland has literally been created by people power as the role of the local to bring it to fruition has been immense.”

Brian Iles, county councillor for economic development, said: “This is an excellent amenity for residents to have on their doorstep.

“I have no doubt that Burlingham Woodland Walks will establish itself an as important destination for visitors to the county.”

The walk has links to Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden and Weavers Way and will host art exhibitions by Acle High School pupils.

Mr Scott and Ian Monson, county council cabinet member for environment and waste, will officially open the woods.