Decision details

Highways Act 1980 - Section 25 Proposed Public Path Creation Agreement for a Public Footpath along the former railway cutting from Irongate Lane (Haslingden 387) to Lumb Viaduct, Irwell Vale, Rossendale Borough

Decision Maker: Regulatory Committee

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Purpose:

File Reference 211-710

Decisions:

A report was presented on the proposed creation by dedication agreement of a publically maintainable footpath along the former railway line between Irongate Lane (Haslingden 387), and Lumb Viaduct, Irwell Vale, Rossendale Borough, marked as A-B on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers.

 

It was reported that the creation of the footpath would secure a public right of way for pedestrians and connect the existing Irongate Lane to Lumb Viaduct, which was considered to be a place of public resort. The Committee noted that, whilst it was currently the intention for this route to be dedicated as a footpath, the longer term aspiration was that it be upgraded to a bridleway. However, this was dependant on the current Definitive Map Modification Order application to record a bridleway along Irongate Lane being confirmed.

 

The proposal was considered to be a benefit to the public in view of the fact that it would improve the network of public rights of way for pedestrians between Lumb Viaduct and Haslingden 387 (Irongate Lane) to the north and further afield between the settlements of Irwell Vale and Strongstry to the east and Holme Vale to the north.  It was hoped that the route would also improve transportation links for cyclists in the future, with the agreement covering future cycle and equestrian use.

 

The Committee were advised that the effect of the Order was compatible with the material provisions of the county council's 'Rights of Way Improvement Plan' in that it would be working towards improving access for pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists in Lancashire.

 

Resolved:

 

(i)  That the proposal for a Public Path Creation Agreement to dedicate a length of footpath along the former railway line at Helmshore, Rossendale connecting Irongate Lane to Lumb Viaduct, be accepted.

 

(ii)  That a Public Path Creation Agreement be entered into under Section 25 of the Highways Act 1980, between the owner of the land south of Irongate Lane to Lumb Viaduct, and Lancashire County Council to dedicate a length of footpath marked A-B on the Committee plan.

 

 

 

 

Divisions Affected: Rossendale South; Rossendale West;

Contact: Claire Blundell Email: claire.blundell@lancashire.gov.uk.

Report author: Claire Blundell

Date of decision: 13/03/2019

Decided at meeting: 13/03/2019 - Regulatory Committee

Accompanying Documents: