Imagine a multi-purpose trail for cyclists, runners, walkers and families. Lined with trees, away from vehicular traffic, with a comfortable gradient to make it easy for anyone to use.

You’re picturing the Barbados Trailway: a project which will promote heritage, recreation and wellness, as well as offer a sustainable transport system. The Barbados Trailway will convert the old Barbados Railway reserve from Bulkeley Sugar Factory, St. George, to Consett Bay, St. John, into an accessible, picturesque rail-to-trail network for cyclists, pedestrians and runners.

Have you heard of a rail-to-trail network before? They are a popular form of adaptive reuse where disused train routes are reborn as bicycle or walking trails. They make an ideal pathway and also promote nature and heritage conservancy.

Find out more information about other rail-to-trail projects in other countries below:
USA: https://www.railstotrails.org/
UK: http://www.bristolbathrailwaypath.org.uk/home.shtml
Canada: https://trailway.ca/ and https://www.railpath.ca/

The Barbados Trailway offers a great opportunity to reimagine the old railway line as an exciting pathway for exercise and even transport.

Listen to our acting Chairman, Barney Gibbs as he discusses the Trailway in detail during his Wirred Interview.

Did you know that the Barbados train line was operational from 1881 to 1937? Learn more right here:

1881 – Railway from Bridgetown to Carrington was officially opened

1883 – Extension to Belleplaine in St. Andrew

1892 – East Coast line was deteriorating

1905 – Crane branch constructed

1915 – Barbados Government agrees to purchase the line

1934 – Passenger traffic ceased

1937 – All traffic ceased

1938 – Physical assets disposed of (cars and rails)

The Barbados Trailway offers a free recreational space for the whole family in a safe and accessible space that promotes active lifestyle. With landscaping of fruit trees and palms, the Barbados Trailway is even further enhanced with shade and opportunities for education on locally grown fruits and flora.

For more information on how you can get involved with the Barbados Trailway Project please contact us.