EXTENSION OF EXERCISE LOOPS AND ACTIVITIES
Överlida Byalag has, with the help of leader support, carried out an inspiring project and created more activities for both residents and visitors.
About the project
Överlida Byalag has, with the help of leader support, carried out the project formally named ”Accessibility Adaptation and Extension of Exercise Loops and Increased Activities”. Through the project, they have not only extended and improved existing trails but also created entirely new opportunities for exercise and outdoor life in the area.
The background to the project lies in a desire to develop Överlida and make the area more accessible and attractive for both residents and tourists. Överlida Byalag had previously built the first phase of Näsetrundan, and now the goal was to extend the loop and connect it with other trails. This became the starting point for an ambitious project that would result in an accessibility-adapted hiking trail, a new MTB descent, and clear signage that facilitates for both locals and visitors to find their way among the various activities.
The project was carried out with great commitment from both the members of the village association and local organizations. Among other things, the local sports club, ÖIK, was an important partner that contributed land and the installation of signs. Several other local actors, such as Överlida Camping and Gräne Gruva, were also involved in the project and helped spread information and coordinate activities. Together, they have succeeded in creating an infrastructure that provides conditions for more people to participate in physical activities in the area.
An extended and improved Näsetrunda
One of the major parts of the project was the extension of Näsetrundan, which has now been extended by 800 meters and equipped with lighting. This means that the trail now passes by a nearby residential area and continues to Överlida camping, where it connects to other exercise loops in the area. The improvement has also made the trail accessible to more – whether one is walking with a stroller, sitting in a wheelchair, or cycling. This means that even more can now enjoy the beautiful nature and exercise opportunities in Överlida.
One of the project's most important goals was to create safe and secure exercise opportunities for everyone, even when it is dark outside. With the help of the newly installed poles and lighting, residents can now enjoy evening walks and runs under safe conditions. The inauguration of the new section was celebrated with a running event and a popular quiz walk, which attracted both old and new visitors.
Photo: Överlida village association. Inauguration of phase 2 of Näsetrundan.
MTB descent and trail for cycling enthusiasts
In addition to making the Näsetrundan more accessible, the village association has also constructed a completely new MTB descent at the old ski slope. Previously, there was no trail or road at the site, but now a challenging course has been created with serpentine turns, bumps, and exciting curves – designed together with an elite cyclist in the sport. This means that cycling enthusiasts now have a completely new place to train, and the trail helps attract more visitors to the area. Furthermore, the entire old exercise loop has been transformed into an MTB trail, making the area even more attractive for those who want to engage in fast-paced activities in nature.
To make it easy for everyone to find the various activities, the village association has set up information maps in several locations around Överlida. The signs clearly show where each activity is located, and small arrows guide visitors correctly along the trails.
A successful project with great engagement
One of the most prominent results from the project is the close collaboration between the village association, local organizations, and businesses. The local sports club ÖIK, which is also responsible for maintaining the area, has been an important player. Överlida Camping and Holsljunga Camping have also contributed land and assistance in setting up information boards. The collaboration has resulted in the village association's work now being seen as a model – The Överlida model – for how similar projects can be implemented in other locations.
The project's success has sparked interest for future initiatives and inspired continued engagement to make Överlida an even more attractive place to live and visit. The hope is that the new exercise trails and activities will not only improve health and well-being for residents but also attract more people to discover and settle in the area.
Excerpt from the final report:
”The local politicians have called our project the Överlida model and see it as a template for how other locations can undertake similar investments.”
/ Överlida village association
The board's decision justification
After receiving the application and presentation to the board, as well as an interview with the applicant, scoring in the selection criteria has shown that the project aligns well with the strategy. The application is assessed as well-prepared and well anchored with the various partners. The project connects and extends a larger area and provides safer cycling and walking paths. The project contributes to movement and recreational activity and can thus lead to improved health and well-being.
About the project
Project period
2022-2024
Project owner
Överlida village association
Project Manager
Markus Johansson
markus@allerga.se
The project in the media
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About the financing
Leader support
300,000 SEK
Co-financing from Överlida village association:
41,663 SEK
Total financing
341,663 SEK
In addition to the above, the project has contributed with volunteer engagement valued at 157,542 SEK.
The Leader support consists of funding from the EU, the state and the municipalities of Sjuhärad.
Incoming EU funds have been granted from:
Rural Development Fund
