Agenda item

Public Participation

No members of the public registered to speak on this application.

Sally Madgwick, Rights of Way Officer (RWO), outlined the officer’s report which recommended the Modification Order be forwarded to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for determination with the recommendation that the Order be confirmed as made.

The RWO outlined the description of the existing route and the proposed changes, focusing in particular on the classification of the route as a restricted by-way. The RWO stated that the application must be considered by the inspectorate even if there is only a single anonymous objection. The RWO proceeded to outline the evidence in support and objection to the order, and detailed the implications of the order with regard to economic and environmental impact.

Members were presented with an opportunity to ask technical question for the application and these focused on the use of the lane as a restricted by-way and limitations on motor traffic users. Questions on access for other land owners were asked and clarification sought on the nature and relevance of the objections received.

Members of the public were given the opportunity to address the Committee as detailed above.

Cllr Howard spoke as the local member for the application and spoke in support of the Officers recommendation.

The Committee then entered debate on the order, and raised the possibility of the land owner installing bollards to limit the usage of the restricted by-way. It was confirmed that this would not be lawful given the current legislation, but that proposals to change the law may allow for the installation of a cattle gate. The Committee decided against amending the recommendation with any conditions and, at the end of the debate, the Committee:

Resolved:

To forward the Wiltshire Council Collingbourne Kingston 1B (part) & 33 and Chute 3 (part) Rights of Way Modification Order  to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for determination, with the recommendation that the Order be confirmed as made.

To place on record the commendation of the Rights of Way Team for their work in producing such a substantial report.