Decision details

A report was presented on the proposed creation by agreement of a publically maintainable footpath to widen a 185 metre section of existing Footpath Haslingden 386 to 3 metres at Raven Shore, Helmshore, marked B-C on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers and to create a new 30 metre section of publically maintainable footpath between Footpath Haslingden 386 and Footpath Haslingden 395, marked A-B on the Committee plan.

The Committee noted that the surface of Footpath Haslingden 386 was eroded and that it had deteriorated significantly since the start of 2016 and was now in a poor condition and difficult to use. It was reported that funding had become available to improve the path through the East Lancashire Cycleway project. The new 3 metre wide surface would be constructed using a mix of recycled tyres and aggregate, known as flexible paving, and this would also be used for the new 3 metre wide section of footpath.  It was reported that this surface was softer than tarmac and was porous, preventing ice formation.

The Committee were informed that the long term aspiration was for the route to be a bridleway, but that it would remain a footpath until the outcome of the current Definitive Map Modification Order application to record a bridleway along Irongate Lane (Haslingden 387) was known.

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 Holme Vale and Raven Shore, Helmshore and potentially improve future transportation links for cyclists.  In addition, 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.

The Committee were informed that flexible paving was currently being used on a trial basis, and that it had received very positive feedback. The Committee requested an update on this once the trial period had finished.

Resolved:

(i)That the proposal for a Public Path Creation Agreement to dedicate an extended width of footpath along 185 metres of Footpath Haslingden 386, at Raven Shore, Helmshore, be accepted.

(ii) That the proposal for a Public Path Creation Agreement to dedicate a new section of footpath between Footpath 386 and Footpath 395, at Raven Shore, Helmshore, be accepted.

(iii) That a Public Path Creation Agreement be entered into under Section 25 of the Highways Act 1980 between the owner of the land of Footpath Haslingden 386 and Lancashire County Council to dedicate a length of footpath marked in pink on the attached map and annotated A-B-C.