Wool paths are ‘carpets’ for walkers

Welsh wool has long been used to make luxury carpets that are popular in North Wales homes. Welsh farmers have also been using wool to repair footpaths.

Walking paths are covered with wool fleeces before stones and aggregate are spread over them. The wool replaces the synthetic membrane that is normally put under the stone and aggregates. The manager of the Made With Wool project, Elen Parry, has said:

“Our aim is to develop sustainable uses for wool which will guarantee a fairer price for farmers. This particular project does this – as well as improving our lived environment and minimising our impact on our surroundings.”

The wool creates a floating carpet path that allows water to drain away naturally.

Using wool on paths is not a new technique. The Romans used wool on waterlogged paths a long time ago. Wool has also been used in railway construction in Ireland a hundred years ago.

The Welsh farmers are paid a fair price for the wool, and local volunteers help renovate the paths. After the summer, the paths will be checked and any sections that have settled a lot will be topped up.

Wool is also being used to conserve paths in the Lake District and the Isle of Skye. There should still be plenty of wool left to make carpets, so no shortages are expected. However, if your carpets are looking worn, it’s a good time to visit your local carpet retailer to see their range of premium quality wool carpets.