Decision details

A report was presented on an application for the addition to the Definitive Map and Statement of a footpath from Higher Road to Wellbrow Drive, Longridge, Ribble Valley, in accordance with File No. 804-582.

Details of the application and the evidence related to it, together with a summary of the law in relation to the continuous review of the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way (in the form of Annex 'A') were presented both as part of the report and by officers at the meeting.

Use of the route was evidenced as being for recreation, to visit friends, get to the shops, to play, for family walks with children, to deliver newspapers and as a short cut to the local shop.

The Committee noted that no objections to the proposal had been made.  Electricity North West had highlighted the fact that there were underground cables located along the full length of the route.

Details of the site inspection which took place on 4^th December 2016 were provided to the Committee.

A concern was raised about this proposal as it was thought it may encourage anti-social behaviour and therefore be a danger to young people.  Jane Turner explained that it was the Committee's role to decide whether to add this footpath to the Definitive Map and Statement, on the basis of evidence of public rights.  Any concerns following this decision being made could be dealt with separately.

Resolved: 

(i)  That the application for the addition to the Definitive Map and Statement of a footpath from Higher Road to Wellbrow Drive, Longridge, in accordance with File No. 804-582, be accepted.

(ii)  That an Order(s) be made pursuant to Section 53 (2)(b) and Section 53 (3)(b) and Section 53(3)(c)(i) the Wildlife and  Countryside Act 1981 to add a footpath from Higher Road to Wellbrow Drive on the Definitive Map and Statement of Public  Rights of Way as shown on Committee Plan between points A-B-C-D.

(iii)  That being satisfied that the higher test for confirmation can be met the Order be promoted to confirmation.