Public inquiry to consider right of way appeal
Published Date:
14 August 2008
A public inquiry is to be held to settle a dispute over the public's right of access to a footpath next to the River Great Ouse in Eaton Socon.
The ongoing issue is over a path which stretches between the edge of the River Mill Marina to the edge of the Ouse, close by the Rivermilll Tavern and a nearby residence.
Part of the path has been cordoned off by a brick wall and electric fence.
Cambridgeshire County Council supported an application by Liberal Democrat district and town councillor, Gordon Thorpe, to extend the right of way and make a map order defining the width of the footpath from the edge of the marine to the river's edge.
However, an appeal by the owners against the council's Definitive Map Order will now take place.
The hearing takes place at the village's Jubilee Hall next Tuesday (August 19).
Cllr Thorpe said that after part of the area was partitioned off about four years ago, local people expressed their concerns and asked for help in restoring a right of way which they had enjoyed for many years.
Residents were especially troubled about the risk to children who would be walking in closer proximity to the marina and the danger of them falling into the water.
Cllr Thorpe said: "The best way was to apply to the county council for a Definitive Map Order. Apparently if people have had free access for 20 years or more, as in this case, they have right of access.
"Two or three years ago the council did a complete investigation, listened to evidence from local people and recommended the area should become open once more to the public."
The campaigning councillor added: "It has been a long drawn out process, but I am hopeful that the right decision will be made by the inspector.
"I would like to thank all those public-spirited residents who supplied photographs, documentary evidence and gave interviews, for their help and assistance in this matter."
The county council's definitive map officer Steve Ouditt confirmed the inquiry would be looking into all aspects of the issue.
He said: "Obviously we had to look at how the path has been used historically and we have looked closely at the evidence given to us.
"If anyone disagrees with the Definitive Map Modification Order they are fully entitled to raise their objections."
Mr Ouditt said if the appeal by the owners fails, the issue will then go back to the county council who will decide the next move.
The full article contains 437 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
14 August 2008 11:51 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Huntingdon