Published: Wednesday, 18th March 2026
Cannock Chase Council, in partnership with members of the Heritage Trail Steering Group, is set to begin improvement works later this month to enhance a link to the Chase Heritage Trail on the playing fields in Rugeley.
The Council is due to start work on surfacing part of a public footpath that runs along the edge of the Hagley playing fields on 23 March and are expected to take just over one week to complete.
Because the improvements affect a Public Right of Way, a temporary closure has been approved. A clearly marked diversion route will be in place for the duration of the project. The working area will be securely fenced off to ensure the safety of the public and contractors.
This project is being funded primarily through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Developed through the Heritage Trail Steering Group, the project brings together Rugeley Town Council, Staffordshire County Council, the playing field tenant, the Environment Agency, and The Hart School. The group has been working collaboratively to develop improvements that support the wider Chase Heritage Trail and enhance the surrounding green spaces for community use.
Councillor Tony Johnson, Portfolio Leader for Parks, Culture and Heritage said: “We know the footpath is a well-used route especially for children going to and from the Hart School, so there is a clearly marked diversion in place. These improvements represent an important step in enhancing both the Heritage Trail and the playing fields for residents, visitors and local organisations who rely on these routes and green spaces. We look forward to seeing the benefits this project will bring once the works are complete.”