A new southern stretch of the Centurion Way now lets walkers, runners and cyclists travel from Chichester into the heart of the South Downs National Park. The route runs through Wellhanger Copse and connects to the Drovers bus stop on the A286. Further work is still underway to finish the remaining sections.
What the new section provides
The opened path passes through Wellhanger Copse and reaches the Drovers bus stop on the A286. Together with the earlier sections, it gives users a continuous off-road route from Chichester toward the centre of the National Park. The National Park Authority describes the project as an effort to create an inclusive route for people of all abilities.
Work still to come
A small northern section alongside a new bridge is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Once finished, it will extend the route to Littlewood. Officials say the northern section from Littlewood Farm to Cocking Hill is the current focus of planning.
Connections to the wider network
Last year, the section that incorporates the former Singleton Railway Station was unveiled after a makeover of that heritage site. The project aims to reach the 100-mile (160 km) South Downs Way National Trail at Cocking. Once that link is complete, visitors will be able to move between the Chichester area and the national trail on a dedicated path.
Why it matters for visitors
According to project manager Colin Carré, the goal is better access to the park's landscapes, biodiversity and heritage. For people without cars, a continuous path from the city to the Downs could make day trips simpler. Those planning a visit should check the latest status of the unfinished northern section before setting out.