Agenda item

8.1

The Director of Culture and Environment submitted a report seeking authority to process a Public Path Closure Order required to close definitive public footpath ECC/80 between Well Lane (private road) and bridleway ECC/81, Ecclesfield.  The report stated that, over a number of years, parts of the route had become overgrown, through lack of use, and had consequently become inaccessible.  It was also explained that there was an alternative route along High Street and Picking Lane that was shorter, well-lit, more open and generally more appealing to pedestrians.

8.2

In assessing the closure, it was indicated that complaints had not been received regarding obstructions to the path and that the proposed closure should not adversely affect the public’s enjoyment of the area or have a detrimental effect on the surrounding highway network and its users.

8.3

In response to comments made by a Member of the Committee over the proposed closure, the Director of Culture and Environment advised on the condition and safety of pedestrians using the path as it was considered to be imposing due to its high hedges, its narrowness with a lack of vision around bends and a danger having to cross a haulage yard with Heavy Goods Vehicles reversing. It was stated that there would be consultation with the Ecclesfield Parish Council and the Monteney and Ecclesfield Tennants’ and Residents’ Association with regard to the closure and that, subject to the proposed closure being agreed by the Committee, the Order would not be made until the consultation had taken place.  It was further stated that arising from the consultation meeting, the Order could be made if all objections had been satisfied.  If any objections remained though, the Order could then be submitted to a future meeting of this Committee which could request determination on its closure by the Secretary of State or it could be decided that the proposed closure should be withdrawn.

8.4

RESOLVED: That (a) no objections be raised to the proposed closure of definitive public footpath ECC/80, as detailed in the report now submitted and shownon the plan now exhibited, subject to satisfactory arrangements being made with the Statutory Undertakers in connection with any of their mains and services that may be affected; and

(b)               authority be given to the Director of Legal & Governance to:

(i)                  take all necessary action to close the footpath under the powers contained within Section 118 of the Highways Act 1980; and

(ii)        confirm the Order as an Unopposed Order, in the event of no objections being received, or any objections received being resolved