Issue - meetings

Rights of Way Items are subject to strict rules and regulations and a short information session will take place to ensure that members are up to date with these prior to discussion on this item

The report seeks a decision on whether to make a legal order to divert Footpath No. 5 (Woking).

Two objections have been maintained to an informal consultation and the officer’s recommendation is that an Order should be made on the grounds that it is in the interests of the landowner and the public.

Declarations of Interest:      None

Officers attending:   Daniel Williams, Countryside Officer

Petitions, Public Questions, Statements:  None

The Woking Joint Committee agree that:

(i)            A diversion order be made under section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 to divert Public Footpath No. 5 (Woking) as shown on amended Drawing No. 3/1/79/H68A.

(ii)           If any objections are received and maintained to the Order it should be submitted to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for determination. 

Reasons for Decision

Members agreed with the officers view that the criteria for making a diversion order have been met. At present the path crosses an area being developed for stabling. The new route, 3m in width, would improve security for the property and provide a path that would no longer be shared with vehicles accessing the property.

Declarations of Interest:      None

Officers attending:   Daniel Williams, Countryside Officer

Petitions, Public Questions, Statements:  None

The Countryside Officer ran through a short presentation on Rights of Way and the legislation the governed any potential changes. 

The Countryside Officer presented a report on the application by the landowner for a footpath diversion at Deep Pool Farm and an amended plan for this had been circulated.  The request that was made due to redevelopment of stables that would be accessed by horses and vehicles, so the diversion was of general benefit to the public and the landowner.  Two objections had been received. 

Members queried whether the new path would be subject to flooding and whether fencing would be provided.  It was noted that the existing styles would be removed and a kissing gate would be provided (which was more accessible).  

The Woking Joint Committee agree that:

(i)            A diversion order be made under section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 to divert Public Footpath No. 5 (Woking) as shown on amended Drawing No. 3/1/79/H68A.

(ii)           If any objections are received and maintained to the Order it should be submitted to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for determination. 

Reasons for Decision

Members agreed with the officers view that the criteria for making a diversion order have been met. At present the path crosses an area being developed for stabling. The new route, 3m in width, would improve security for the property and provide a path that would no longer be shared with vehicles accessing the property.