In a proud moment for the local community, Jess Fuller-Brown, Member of Parliament for Chichester, joined Councillor Windsor Holden, Chair of Westhampnett Parish Council, and senior representatives from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to celebrate the official opening of the newly upgraded Footpath 417. The ceremonial walk, led by Gunther Böhner, Director of Manufacturing at Rolls-Royce, showcased the significant enhancements made to this vital local pathway.
Once a narrow and uneven track, Footpath 417 has been transformed into a two-metre-wide, all-weather route, making it accessible year-round to residents and visitors alike. These improvements, fully funded and executed by Rolls-Royce, include a smooth, durable surface and planned additions of benches and landscaped surroundings. These efforts form part of the luxury manufacturer’s commitment to improving local infrastructure while maintaining a focus on environmental stewardship.
A Step Towards Community and Environmental Gains
The footpath upgrade is a key element in Rolls-Royce’s broader development strategy tied to the landmark extension of its Goodwood facility, known as the Home of Rolls-Royce. The project includes a commitment to a Biodiversity Net Gain of over 10% across the site, which will enhance the natural environment and provide an enriched experience for footpath users.
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage at Rolls-Royce, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating:
“Under our auspices, Footpath 417 has been transformed from a narrow, poorly surfaced track into a fully accessible route that is usable year-round, forming part of a broader network within our local area. We’re delighted to take this opportunity to develop and fund these important local amenities in close consultation with our partners at Westhampnett Parish Council, West Sussex County Council, and local residents.”
Building a ‘Clean Boots’ Circular Route
The upgraded Footpath 417 will soon connect with Footpath 416, creating the area’s first circular ‘clean boots’ walking route. This addition, scheduled for completion in early 2024, will offer a seamless, scenic walk around Westhampnett and the Rolls-Royce estate. The enhancements to Footpath 416, initiated and funded by Rolls-Royce earlier this year, have already been met with widespread approval, particularly among local families and leisure walkers.
The circular route exemplifies Rolls-Royce’s commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship between its manufacturing activities and the surrounding community. This initiative, while not part of the planning consent for the site expansion, underscores the company’s proactive approach to creating local value.
Sustaining Local and National Prosperity
The extension of the Home of Rolls-Royce is a milestone for the iconic brand, marking the first major expansion of its Goodwood facility since its opening in 2003. Once operational, the extension will enhance the company’s sustainability and bolster its contribution to the UK economy. Rolls-Royce currently employs over 2,500 people in Goodwood, supports 7,500 supply chain jobs, and injects over £500 million into the national economy annually, with a significant portion benefitting Chichester and West Sussex directly.
Jess Fuller-Brown MP praised the project’s positive impact on the local area, remarking:
“In rural communities like Westhampnett, residents know that local footways are a crucial link to our natural environment, so even small improvements can go a long way. I’d like to thank Rolls-Royce for inviting me along to see how the Parish Council and Rolls-Royce are working in partnership to deliver new and improved local infrastructure.”
A Legacy of Collaboration
The upgrades to Footpath 417 and the planned circular route underscore Rolls-Royce’s commitment to balancing innovation and growth with community and environmental stewardship. As the Home of Rolls-Royce continues to evolve, its contributions to the local landscape, economy, and quality of life remain a testament to the power of thoughtful collaboration.
