South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group report, 21.2.12

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: The RoW Office is now waiting details from their environmental contractors to see if they believe the surface can be repaired through physical works. The process is very frustrating and extremely costly for RoW Office due to the length of time the route has been closed and the cost involved in employing the contractors with, at present, no end result. There is no alternative but to keep the bridleway closed until further notice. There has been no progress in the rerouting of this path.

Seisdon Common Road (adjacent to BP6, Trysull & Seisdon): A fallen tree had been reported on this county road. Inspection found that it could be moved to allow horses and walkers to get past. RoW Office have passed our request for removal to the Highways Dept.

BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: The gate at the Seisdon end has a chain fitted to secure it in the open position. This gate is being constantly closed by someone, and should remain open unless stock is being moved.
Paul Rochfort will write to, or contact Mr. Crowther and request once again that he keeps the gate chained open unless he is moving stock between fields. If we receive significant complaints from members of the group he is happy to discuss the matter further.
The Group intends to investigate the possibility of reinstating this path as a Restricted Byway under a ‘Section 53 Application’

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG) Still awaiting permission from Land Owner.
BP7, Bilbrook: Problems with motorcyclists using this path to access land for scrambling. Police, Parish Council and BHS involved. Planning Consent had been applied for by the Land Owner and all interested parties were against the proposal. The request for Planning Permission was withdrawn by the applicant before the Planning Committee met.
BP30, Lapley, Stretton & Wheaton Aston: Paul Rochfort has liaised with the British Horse Society regarding the diversion of this route. There is some considerable clearance works required in the woodland atop the Spoil Banks and Brian has agreed that a few members of the North Staffordshire Bridleways group will be coming down to undertake low grade clearance at some point this winter. SSDBG members are invited to assist with the works. No diary dates to hand yet, but it is likely to be a weekend day.
Larger chainsaw works will need to be undertaken by the Works Unit. Any volunteers?

Bridleway Gates:
At the SSDBG meeting on 12th July 2011, it was resolved that Members be asked to identify any gates that are unnecessary (due to the long term lack of need for stock control) be identified. The Group would then lobby RoW Office for their removal.
The following gates have been identified so far:
BP6, Lower Penn: At the rear of Dimmingsdale Nursery leading to Pool Hall.
BP4, Trysull & Seisdon: Adjacent to Mr Beards’ house.
BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: Church Lane.
BP22, Trysull & Seisdon: Fox Road to Wolmore Farm drive. (2 gates)
BP 899 Bishops Wood: Belvide Reservoir & Blackladies map ref. SJ 849097
Note:
The new Defra Permissive Route on Furnace Grange Farm land is now established adjacent to Ebstree Road. Riders are asked to respect the terms of the Permissive Routes and keep to the marked paths.
Post Office Lane, Seisdon: The Group has been informed that the Land Owner, Mr. Shotton is upset that riders are using his land accessed in front of the Alms Houses without permission. Could any members witnessing this practice ask those responsible to desist, or identify them to the Group? Thank you.

The next meeting of the Group will be held at the Holly Bush at Ebstree on 27th March 2012 at 8pm.

Don’t forget to use the SSDBG Facebook page and to use it to report any incidents or problems on our off-road routes.
Happy riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory
21.2.12

South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group report, 29.11.11

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: This path has now been closed for 4 years. A new inspection survey has been ordered. There is no progress for a diversion across adjacent land as at 30th September ’11, and as a result there is no alternative but to keep the bridleway closed until further notice.

BP4, Trysull & Seisdon: This path has been cleared by RoW Office labour.

BP6, Trysull &Seisdon: Seisdon Common. Repeated reports of motor cycles causing a nuisance on this path. Police have been involved, and one offender issued with a Section 59 Statutory Warning. Two more reports of motorcycles and a quad bike using this path as recently as 28.11.11.
There have been two reports of a loose dog on the main road, B4176. Paul Rochfort has written a letter to the resident of Abbots Fall where members believed the dog was kept. The gentleman concerned responded by phone and said his dog does not match the description given, and that his dog had not been off his premises. There have been no further instances of late.

BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: The gate at the Seisdon end has a chain fitted to secure it in the open position. This gate is being constantly closed by someone, and should remain open unless stock is being moved. Paul Rochfort has offered to write to the Occupier and suggest that the gate be locked open, the key being kept by the Occupier. The RoW Office will be contacted for an update. The Group will investigate the possibility of reinstating this path as a Restricted Byway under a ‘Section 53 Application’.

BP18, Trysull & Seisdon: The Elms. Encroaching vegetation is still a problem on this path. It is thought that Japanese Knotweed is present. The responsibility for this work is thought to rest with the adjacent Land Owner, and Maggie Harrison has liaised with him. Members are asked to monitor the situation.

BP22, Trysull & Seisdon: A request was made to the RoW Office for an inspection to be made of this route following reports of holes appearing in the surface. The County Ranger made an inspection and on 26th August, we were notified by RoW Office that one rabbit hole had been identified and backfilled.

BP23, Trysull & Seisdon: Wolmore. There have been comments that this path has become rough and uneven. RoW Office will be contacted to ask if it is possible to roll the surface at some date.

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG) Still awaiting permission from Land Owner.

BP11, Perton Parish: Toads Nest Lane. Overhanging and encroaching vegetation on this path was reported to RoW Office, and a request sent for treatment. We were notified on 16th August that the County Works Unit had carried out the clearance by 3rd August.

BP15, Wombourne: We have been advised that vegetation was cut on this path on 9th August.
BP7, Bilbrook: Ongoing problems with motorcyclists using this path to access land for scrambling. Police, Parish Council and BHS involved. Planning Consent has been applied for by the Land Owner (Ref 11/00777/COU) – all agencies appear to be against the proposal. An objection has been lodged in the name of this Group: On behalf of the South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group, I wish to make an objection to this application for the change of use of agricultural land. The land is accessed via a Public Bridleway, and its proposed use will interfere with the legitimate use by horse riders, walkers and cyclists. The path joins up with other footpaths and bridle paths, and would be unusable to many if the development were to be permitted. The noise generated by the change of use specified would cause nuisance and distress to local residents. This proposal affects land situated in the Green Belt, and we query whether it is a "Permitted Development". AWG.
Note: This Application was scheduled to have been considered by the Planning Committee today (29.11.11)
BP30, Lapley, Stretton & Wheaton Aston: Paul Rochfort has recently met with Brian Smith from the British Horse Society regarding the diversion of the above route. There is some considerable clearance works required in the woodland atop the Spoil Banks and Brian has agreed that a few members of the North Staffordshire Bridleways group will be coming down to undertake low grade clearance at some point this winter. SSDBG members are invited to assist with the works. No diary dates to hand yet, but it is likely to be a weekend day.
Larger chainsaw works will need to be undertaken by the Works Unit. Any volunteers?

Bridleway Gates:
The following message has been received from the Rights of Way Office:
“Further to my previous email I am now in receipt of some legal advice and wish to inform you that we can find no legal requirement for a delay mechanism to be fitted to bridle gates.
If you wish to discuss this please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Paul Rochfort
Principal Rights of Way Officer.”
At the SSDBG meeting on 12th July, it was resolved that Members be asked to identify any gates that are unnecessary (due to the long term lack of need for stock control) are identified. The Group will then lobby RoW Office for their removal. A deadline for reporting redundant gates has been set for 1.1.12 (New Year’s Day!)
Note:
Furnace Grange Farm have laid down another Defra Permissive Route adjacent to Ebstree Road. Riders are asked to avoid this path in wet weather conditions and are asked to respect the terms of the Permissive Routes and keep to the marked paths.
Post Office Lane, Seisdon: The Group has been informed that the Land Owner, Mr. Shotton is upset that riders are using his land accessed in front of the Alms Houses without permission. Could any members witnessing this practice ask those responsible to desist, or identify them to the Group? Thank you.

We have two new volunteers to oversee the bridle paths around Brewood, Lapley and Stretton. Sue Hayes and Sue Bullock have kindly offered their services, and anyone with queries can contact them on 01902 850824.

The next meeting of the Group will be held at the Holly Bush at Ebstree on 21st February 2012 at 8pm.

Don’t forget to use the SSDBG Facebook page and to use it to report any incidents or problems on our off-road routes.
Happy riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory
29.11.11

South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group report, 17.5.11

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: No progress since last report. As a result there is no alternative but to keep the bridleway closed until further notice.

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG)

BP 15, Trysull & Seisdon: The gate at the Seisdon end has a chain fitted to secure it in the open position. This gate is being constantly closed by someone, and should remain open unless stock is being moved.

BP18, Trysull & Seisdon: The Elms. Overhanging and encroaching vegetation was reported on this path at the last meeting, and a request sent to ROW Office for treatment. The Ranger has been asked to visit and report. It is thought that Japanese Knotweed is present.The responsibility for this work is thought to rest with the adjacent Land Owners. Members are asked to monitor the situation. No Ranger report to hand yet.

BP22, Trysull & Seisdon: Riders are warned to be careful – holes in the path.

BP11, Perton Parish: Toads Nest Lane. Overhanging and encroaching vegetation was reported on this path at the last meeting, and a request sent to ROW Office for treatment. The Ranger has been asked to visit and report. The responsibility for this work is thought to rest with the adjacent Land Owners. Members are asked to monitor the situation. No Ranger report to hand yet.

BP4, Perton Parish: No information to hand. There have been no further complaints from users of this route.

BP7, Enville Parish: Paul Rochfort reinspected this path on 24th March and arranged for treatment of the encroaching vegetation. By 17th April, this work had been carried out, and now affords safer riding away from the fence enclosing the exotic animals. Thanks are due to the ROW Office.

Note: Furnace Grange Farm have laid down more Defra Permissive Route adjacent to Ebstree Road. Riders are asked to avoid this path until the grass has grown, the path rolled, and the ground becomes firm enough to take horses and carriages. It is thought that this could take some time, and meanwhile, the old route can be used. Please avoid any damage to irrigation pipes throughout the coming summer.

The next meeting of the Group will be held at the Holly Bush at Ebstree on 12th July 2011 at 8pm.

Don’t forget to use the SSDBG Facebook page and to use it to report any incidents or problems on our off-road routes.
Happy riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory
17.5.11

South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group report, 15.3.11

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: The proposed diversion of this path to exit onto Faeishill Road opposite BP 4 to Clan Farm – Land owner now identified and in discussion with ROW Office. Paul Rochfort received a letter from the Landowner regarding the bridleway. Due to a family bereavement (someone who also had an interest in the land) he is unable to meet at present but will contact the office again in due course to arrange a meeting. As a result there is no alternative but to keep the bridleway closed until further notice.

BP4, Trysull & Seisdon: The ROW team have carried out a major cut-back for some 40 metres, about 168 metres before the contentious gate. This has made the path much more user friendly. Many thanks to the ROW Office for organising this

BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: At the request of the Seisdon & Trysull Parish Council, the Council Highways Dept. signs been erected at both ends to read “No vehicular access” with a note for Sat. Nav. users. A chain has been provided to the gate at the Seisdon end so that it can be secured in the open position. At the last meeting, Mark Weston from BHS offered to advise the Group as to the possibility of reclassifying this route

BP22, Trysull & Seisdon: The bridle gate has now been adjusted so that it opens properly.

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG)

BP6, Tinkers Castle. 
A member has contacted someone who has been involved with the status of this path since 1972, and was 
involved with the working party that originally cleared the route. She is going to have a look for all the paper work and witness statements she obtained (some of them are dead now though!). 

BP4, Perton Parish: Following the last meeting of the Group, this path was inspected by SSDBG committee members. Reports of noisy caged dogs were confirmed, but so long as the dogs remain on their owner’s land, there can be no action taken. Some hardcore ‘litter’ was moved off the path. There is encroaching vegetation requiring trimming. A badly poached area could be bypassed with some tree cutting. An awkward gate was identified. ROW Office has asked the Ranger to investigate and report back.

BP7, Enville Parish: The ROW Office had asked the adjacent landowner to cut back hedges and realign the fencing to improve this path. Reports from our member in the area state that there is no visible improvement, and that the exotic animals are still a safety issue. Paul Rochfort has promised to reinspect the path on 24th March next, and if necessary, will contact the landowner to take matters further.
 
Brewood Parish:
ROW Office has confirmed that works to open Public Bridleway No's 0.899 and 0.909 Brewood have now been completed (and are open for the first time in living memory!).Again – thanks to ROW Office for their persistence.

Don’t forget to use the SSDBG Facebook page and to use it to report any incidents or problems on our off-road routes.
Happy riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory
17.3.11

An update from South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group

27.7.10

BP 6, Dimmingsdale: The low level concrete posts have been removed by the land owner.

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: The proposed diversion of this path to exit onto Faeishill Road opposite BP 4 to Clan Farm – Land owner now identified and in discussion with ROW Office. Could be a long drawn-out job.

BP4, Trysull & Seisdon: Longer handle has now been installed on gate adjacent to Mr. Beards’ house. The vegetation over the adjacent sleepers has been strimmed off and cut back following a request by a SSDBG member.

BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: Seisdon & Trysull Parish Council have asked the Council Highways Dept. for signs to be provided at both ends to read “No vehicular access” or similar.

Ongoing deliberations by ROW Office as to how to proceed with the difficult situation following disappearance of the gate retaining chain.

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG)

BP 7, Perton Parish: The land owner responded, and arranged for the 4ft gate to be replaced with a 5ft gate which was changed sometime before 15th June. No news yet regarding the barbed wire fence erected along bridle path rear of Cranmore Farm development.

BP 11, Perton: The last part of Toad’s Nest Lane where it exits onto Wolverhampton Road Pattingham had become overgrown with hazardous low branches. At our request, the Rangers inspected the site, and the work was carried out quickly by 8th July. Well done the ROW Team!

BP7, Enville Parish: A second Ranger visit and report has not yet been carried out due to the Ranger being on high fire alert on Cannock chase. It may be possible for a SSDBG member to make a site visit with a ROW Officer.

Bridle paths in Brewood, Lapley and Wheaton Aston area: We welcome the offer from Sue Scotton to monitor the paths in this area. Following a request for an opinion, Sue is to report to the ROW Office on a proposed diversion of a path at Lapley.

The SSDBG Facebook page is proving useful for circulating information quickly, and you encouraged to use it to report any incidents or problems on our off-road routes.

Happy riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory

27.7.10

23/3/10

BP 5, Lower Penn: Retrospective Planning Consent applied for business use at the Barn conversion at Pool Hall. Permission refused. Applicant to lodge appeal.

BP 6, Dimmingsdale: Mr Dursanjh has agreed to replace low concrete post with a wooden post 4ft high. Concrete post still insitu.
 
BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: It seems that this path that has now been closed for several months and may not be opened again. Suggestion made to ROW office to divert it at 90˚  to come out on Faeishill Road opposite BP 4 to Clan Farm making a circular route. Edward Bolland, the tenant, has been approached, and asked ROW office to write to him for discussion with Land Owner. Could be a long drawn-out job.
No progress.

BP4, Trysull & Seisdon: Longer handle to be installed on gate adjacent to Mr. Beards’ house. Job sheet issued to Rangers to install.  Outstanding.
An incident involving a Dalmation dog chasing a rider has been reported to the ROW Office together with a complaint of dogs at Clan Farm. Paul Rochfort to action.

BP15, Trysull & Seisdon: Wooden post and chain installed by Rangers to secure Seisdon end gate in open position was stolen within two days. ROW Office taking action.
On 10th March, Tony Gregory attended a Trysull & Seisdon Parish Council meeting to discuss this path with local residents, and hear their concerns.
Papers are now in hand to make an application under Section 53 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 for a Definitive Map Modification Order. Evidence of usage will be required.

BP18, Trysull & Seisdon: Alec Smith carrying out work to his garden: advises that this work will be next to the path for a short term. Work now completed. Thanks to Mr. Smith for the advance notice.

BP27, Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed. (In stock with AWG)

BP 7, Perton Parish: This path leaves the Pattingham Road and skirts the golf course along the Staffs Way. AWG asked by Paul Rochfort to liaise with Louise Powis of Hollies Lane regarding this path. Recently erected gate onto Bradshaw’s land is difficult to operate (horses head in hedge job). Louise asked if mounting blocks could be installed. Site visit showed that if gate hung on other side, with hunting latch, it would be possible to operate the gate whilst mounted. At same time it was noted that a barbed wire fence was being erected along bridle path rear of Cranmore Farm development.
PR has written to Land Owner, and a response is awaited.
No response from Landowner yet.

BP7, Enville Parish: Following an incident on this path near Lutley Lane, ROW Office informed.
The path is narrow between a hedge and a barbed wire fence, and gated at either end. One gate is stiff to operate, and there is not enough width to turn the horse around. A menagerie of assorted animals are known to spook horses to exaggerate the problem.
Paul Rochfort has instructed the County Ranger to investigate.

New contacts
We are now in contact with Sue Evans who lives on the Staffs/Shrops border near Accleton. Sue is a ‘one man’ Bridleway Group!
Sue Scotton from Brewood has volunteered to be of service to SSDBG for her area. AWG to contact her during April.
Cllr. Robert Reade, Lower Penn Parish Council, has been helpful in resolving problem at Dimmingsdale.
The Group now features on the Facebook website, and is proving useful for circulating information quickly.

Tony Gregory

Update from January 28th:

At last the weather has improved, and we can get out on our Bridleways once again.

Please be considerate on the Permissive Routes, refrain from galloping on soft surfaces and avoid the Conservation Strips. Keep the farmers happy!

BP 5, Lower Penn: Retrospective Planning Consent applied for business use at the Barn conversion at Pool Hall. Members have been asked to make objections to this application before 22.1.10.
Recent information is that the Planning Officers are recommending planning approval on 26th January, still subject to Elected Members’ decision. SSDBG got a mention in Express & Star!

BP 6, Dimmingsdale: Mr Dursanjh has agreed to move barbed wire (done) and replace low concrete post with 4ft high timber posts. No chance with recent weather.

BP1, Trysull & Seisdon: It seems that this path that has now been closed for several months and may not be opened again. Suggestion made to ROW office to divert it at 90˚ to come out on Faeishill Road opposite BP 4 to Clan Farm making a circular route. Edward Bolland, the tenant, has been approached, and asked ROW office to write to him for discussion with Land Owner. Could be a long drawn-out job.

BP4 Trysull & Seisdon: Longer handle to be installed on gate adjacent to Mr. Beards’ house.

BP15 Trysull & Seisdon, Church Lane: ROW Rangers have installed a post and chain to secure the gate at the Seisdon end of this path in the open position, as agreed with the Land Owner. The gate should only be closed when stock is being moved.

BP27 Trysull & Seisdon: Gate still to be installed.

BP 7 Perton Parish: This path leaves the Pattingham Road and skirts the golf course along the Staffs Way. SSDBG have been asked ROW Office to liaise with a rider regarding this path. A recently erected gate onto Bradshaw’s land is difficult to operate (horses head in hedge job). A site visit showed that if the gate was hung on other side, with hunting latch, it would be possible to operate the gate whilst mounted. At the same time it was noted that a barbed wire fence was being erected along bridle path rear of Cranmore Farm development. A letter has been written to the Land Owner, and a response is awaited.

Safe riding and driving.

Tony Gregory

Update following meeting held on Tuesday 17th November 2009 at Bell inn, Trysull

There has been little to complain about this summer regarding the state of our bridle paths in South Staffs, and it would appear that we are eventually getting things sorted. Paul Rochfort at Stafford R.O.W. office acts as soon as he is able, and even with a reduced staff, the Rangers manage to carry out their tasks quite quickly. Our grateful thanks to all of them.

BP 7, Bilbrook: This path, part of the Monarch’s Way has, for the past few winters, been impassable on foot, and dangerous on horseback. The development of the i54 site has affected drainage and some 75metres were completely waterlogged and rutted with deep mud. After protracted work by SSDBG and the R.O.W. office to track down land owners and tenants in May, work was put in hand to resurface the stretch with road planings by the beginning of October. All down to Noreen Moore and her team: Many thanks.

BP 6, Lower Penn Parish: In early May, it was reported by a SSDBG member that some work had been carried out to this path at Dimmingsdale. Barbed wire had been installed, and two low concrete posts erected in the path. The matter is now in the hands of the R.O.W. office and the Lower Penn Parish Council, and a site meeting of all parties is arranged for late November. I am sure that a sensible solution to the land owner’s security concerns will be found.

BP 1, Trysull & Seisdon: This path from Woodford Lane to B4176 is still closed UFN. It may be best in the long term to divert this path. Enquiries are in hand to confirm ownership of the land.

BP 18, Trysull & Seisdon, The Elms: This path has been kept cut back this summer.
An instruction was made to the Rangers to remove a fallen tree on the day it was reported to the ROW office on 2nd November. Message received 11th November from Ranger Dominic Willmore: Tree now cleared. Thanks again for their prompt attention.

BP 23, Trysull & Seisdon: The slippery path at Wolmore Farm will remain slippery I am afraid! The R.O.W. team have investigated the possibility of resurfacing, and found that the cost would be prohibitive at some £100,000, unless a cheaper solution can be found.
You are all urged to ride this path with caution.

BP 27, Trysull & Seisdon, Greenacres: The new gate at the junction of BP 18 and this path will be installed over the winter months.

Please remember to be considerate when using the Inett’s Permissive Routes, especially keeping off the Conservation Strips, and indeed all bridle paths after wet weather.
Don’t forget to tell Bev Higgs of any problems or suggestions for improving the off-road riding in South Staffs.

Safe riding (and driving!)

Tony Gregory
18.11.09

Minutes of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING held on Tuesday 10th March 2009 at Bell inn, Trysull

Present:   Louise Ellis,  Beverley Higgs, Chris Kneller, Sara & Maggie Harrison Denise Billingham, Graham Phillips, Liz Mills, Andy Bryant, Trish, Tony & Carol Gregory
Apologies:  Wendy  & Paul Kneller, Tracy Crane

Maggie advised that she had emailed members new and old of this evenings meeting and Bev advised that she had put the AGM details on the East Shropshire Riding Club website.

CHAIRMANS REPORT

Maggie referred to the achievements of the group and highlighted the fact that none of the improvements to the bridleways would have been done without our efforts. The full report is attached.

We have formed good links with the county council

Tony Gregory has been a key worker liaising with the council and Maggie presented him with a bottle of wine from the group as a big thank you and a box of chocolates for Carol for allowing him to get so involved.  Bev was thanked for helping to paint the South Staffordshire bridleways group filler which is being used at East Shropshire Shows to promote the group.
Graham Philips and his friend Bob, who is non horsey ,were also thanked for helping to erect a new gate at bridle path 12

 ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Maggie advised that she was happy to stand as chairperson for another year.  There were no resignations or nominations and so with no objections it was agreed for the existing committee to remain;

Chairperson:  Maggie Harrison
Secretary: Louise Ellis
Treasurer: Andy Bryant
Membership Secretary: Sara Harrison
Carriage Driver Reps: Tony & Carol Gregory
BHS Representative: Andy Bryant
Social Secretary: Denise Billingham
Area Representatives: Pattingham – Helen Franklin
                                          Seisdon – Denise Billingham, Graham Phillips, Liz Mills
                                          Trescott – Tracy Crane, Wendy Mcgarry
                                          Lower Penn – Bev Higgs, Chris Kneller
A new role was agreed for Trish who has been acting as our scout and she was co-opted as ‘Group Ranger’. Trish slightly dubious of  her duties accepted the position.

TREASURERS REPORT

An income of £59.05 from membership fees and the quiz with the only expenditure being the BHS affiliation fee of £30.00 leaving a credit balance of £152.27.However the majority of this was due to be paid out for the materials for the repositioning of the new gate at bridle path  12  
                South Staffordshire Bridleways Group

A brief meeting followed the agm

BRIDLEWAYS REPORT

Bridle path 12

A new gate has just been erected in the middle of this bridleway. The original gateway has been moved away from the hedge line and with a new proper bridleway gate installed it is now much safer to use.

Bridle path 18 to 27

There is still an issue with the land falling away from the track and there are suggestions of making 2 long and wide steps. The landowner, Mr Harvey was happy for the work to be carried out but is rather concerned about any liability issues with the addition of the steps. Tony has queried this with Paul at the council and he referred the matter to the legal department. They have confirmed that because the steps form part of the surface of the bridle path, this falls on the rights of the council  and there is no come back on the landowner. Tony advised that he has actually got the new gate to replace the wooden one.

Bridle path 15 - CHURCH LANE

Tony informed us that he had a meeting with Trevor Crowther, his friend Clive, Paul Rotchfort, Noreen Maur , Brian Edwards, Mr Crowther  jnr and Steve Harrison .  The gates had been erected for stock control purposes especially when moving them from field to field. It was therefore decided that the gates could remain open when stock was not being moved. Mr Crowther reluctantly agreed and also raised the issue of fly tipping and motor cyclists.

However, since this meeting and despite the gate being tied back on several occasions they are still being closed.

Maggie suggested sending a courtesy letter to the Bakers at Roast Farm at the end of the path so that they are aware of what has been agreed.

Tony also advised that he had received all the paperwork from Tony Unwin who had done a lot of research into Church Lane and he intended to get it re-classed as a Parish road. Maggie suggested keeping Mr Fowler informed of our intentions.

Bridle path 4 – Seisdon Common

The sleepers that had been installed very close to the gate way caused a big debate. It was generally felt that they were a hazard as they are too close together and too high to step over. One rider is no longer able to take her horse through this path because of the sleepers

Tony advised that the materials had been supplied by the council and were installed under specific requirements for horse stiles and the Beards,  who live next to the stile,  agreed to keep the vegetation under control so that the sleepers are clearly visible.

Louise expressed her concerns about the padlock and chain that hung around the gate post but Tony assured us that there was no intention by the Beards to lock the gate.

This then led to a further very lengthy discussion about whether the tarmacing of bridleways was actually legal and how it had been allowed on this bridle path. Does it mean anyone can tarmac a bridle path?!

Bridleway 5 & 6 – Pool Hall

Parts of this have been tarmaced and Tony taken up with council

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Tracy Crane asked Maggie to inform everybody that there was an article in the Express and Star about a possibility of bikers meeting on a Wednesday night at the Pavillion garden centre on the Bridgnorth Road between Tresoctt and Shipley.  If this is successful they would then look at extending to a Thursday and Saturday too!

The garden centre is right next to the permissive bridle route on the Inetts land. It was generally felt that, with no disrespect to motor bikers , this could prove very dangerous for horse riders wanting to use this route.

Permissive Route at Snelsons, Whittimere

The matter was raised about the gate on the main road, used  to access the route from the bridle path on Seisdon Common.  It was felt that it is not safely possible to close the gate before crossing the road to get onto the common because you would have to do a 180 degree turn on the grass verge on the side of the main road to close the gate. Coming form the common was not such an issue as it can be closed safely from the field.  Denise said she would speak to Yvonne Snelson and see what her thoughts were.

Dogs on Seisdon Common

As long as the dogs are contained we were advised that there is nothing that can be done.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Tuesday 28th April at 8pm

An update on 27th March 09

After what feels like a very long and cold winter, everyone seemed to be out last weekend either cycling, walking, running – or on horseback! At long last the bridle paths are drying out, and there is plenty of off-road riding before the summer grass growth makes the paths so narrow.

We have been busy over the winter, with several improvements as follows:-
BP 15, Church Lane between Trysull and Seisdon. At a meeting on site between the landowner, a Parish Councillor, a District Councillor, two ROW Officers and a SSDBG representative, it was agreed that the gate closest to Seisdon would be repositioned to make life easier for riders. The landowner has done this – our thanks to Trevor. The gate can be left in the OPEN position unless the landowner is moving stock from one field to another. The gate at the Trysull end remains the same. We hope that this eases the situation here until the path can be upgraded to a Restricted Byway.
BP 23, Wolmore. The beet bucket has long gone, and in its place are two very big boulders 5ft apart. Thanks to the Farquharsons. No problem now, except for the slippery surface. The ROW Office agreed last year that the surface is unsuitable, but funding was not available to treat it. We are assured that the path will be looked at again in the financial year beginning in April, and a reminder will be posted in May. Keep your fingers crossed!
BP 27, Greenacres. Good news again. The landowner, David Harvey has allowed us to work on this path that crosses his land. The ROW Office has supplied two gates, and at a work party on 21st February, the ‘middle’ gate was installed (see photos below).

Thanks to all who turned up to help and support – you know who you are!
The gate at the junction with BP 18 needs more consideration. The land here falls away quite steeply, and we are considering two very large platform cum steps, and a further work party is planned to install this second gate. So beware!
BP 1 Trysull to B4176. This path is currently closed UFN due to the collapse of the path’s surface.

Please remember to be considerate when using the Inett’s Permissive Routes, and indeed all bridle paths after wet weather.

Don’t forget to tell Bev Higgs of any problems or suggestions for improving the off-road riding in South Staffs.

Here’s hoping for a good summer and plenty of safe enjoyable hacking.
Safe Riding,

Tony Gregory.
17.3.09

An update from South Staffordshire & District Bridleway Group 11th Nov 08

The reported good relationship with the Rights of Way Officers at Stafford continues, and most bridle paths in the area have seen improvements over the summer months.

We are pleased to report the following improvements: -
BP 4 Seisdon Common. The disputed gate on this path at the northerly end has been relocated, and a 6ft gap left alongside for riders. The ‘arched’ tree has been felled, and further fallen trees removed.
At the end of the wooded section, the landowner, in conjunction with the Rights of Way Officer, has installed two sleepers to a nationally agreed anti-motor cycle design. He has promised to keep vegetation under control so as the sleepers remain visible.
BP 15 Church Lane. The saga of the gates continues. We are hoping to have a meeting on site with the adjacent landowners, the ROW Officers and the local County Councillor. Keep watching this space!
BP 21 Wolmore to Chicken Farm. At our request, the ROW team at both ends of this path has erected finger posts.
BP 22 Wolmore to Fox Rd. At our request, the path was mowed in mid August, and again at our request, a standard bridle path gate has replaced the narrow wooden gate where this path leaves BP 15.
BP 27 Greenacres. The problematic gates on this path have been inspected and a remedy suggested. Negotiations are in hand.
BP 6 Pool Hall. The landowners have been asked to inform the ROW Officer before laying any more tarmac surfacing on this path.
BP 1 Trysull to B4176. This path is currently closed UFN due to the collapse of the path’s surface.

Please remember to be considerate when using the Inett’s Permissive Routes. No galloping, and take it easy during this spell of very wet weather.
Don’t forget to tell Bev Higgs of any problems or suggestions for improving the off-road riding in South Staffs.

Safe Riding,
Tony Gregory

An update:

Since the last report dated 15th March, the Group has been busy liasing with the Rights of Way Officers at Stafford. A good relationship is evolving, and our concerns over surfacing, signage, vegetation growth, gates and overhanging trees are being met with sympathy, and most of all – ACTION!

We are pleased to report the following improvements:
BP 11, Trescott. The tubular steel barrier has been shortened to make the gap the regulation 5 feet wide.
BP 10, The Clive. A new gate has been installed (by the landowner), set well back from the highway, greatly improving the safety here.
BP 18, Post Office Road, Seisdon. The slippery surface at the entrance adjacent to The Elms has been resurfaced. Hurrah!
BP 15, Church Lane. The re-siting of the bridleway gate is still causing a problem. We are still on the case!!
BP 23, Wolmore. The beet bucket has been moved to increase the gap to the regulation width. The slippery surface along here has been inspected, and hopefully the surface will be treated in the next financial year. Watch this space!
BP 4, Seisdon Common. There are some disputed gates along here, and it is hoped that we can resolve the problems soon. An inspection of the path has been arranged, and we are trying to get the low arched tree removed, the vegetation cut down and other issues sorted out.
BP 27, leading off Smallman’s track across the Mares’ Field. The gates on this path are being inspected, and we hope improvements will follow.
BP 39, Wombourne. A 5ft wide bridleway gate is to be installed.

We are pleased to report that the Permissive Route on the Inett’s land at Furnace Grange is being enjoyed by all. With the addition of a few signs, and the growth on the Conservation Strips, everyone is keeping to the designated path, and the Farmers are happy.

Don’t forget to tell Bev Higgs of any problems or suggestions for improving the off-road riding in South Staffs.

Tony Gregory,
01.08.08