Item under SO23(2) Littlehempston cycle and foot path (Minute *72, 5 April 2019)
In accordance with Standing Order 23(2) Councillor Hodgson has requested that the Committee consider this matter.
Minutes:
The Committee noted that, in accordance with Standing Order 23, Councillor Hodgson had asked that the Committee consider the long outstanding issue of public access across the South Devon Railway (SDR) pedestrian bridge, which had been built several years ago funded by 50% public funds.
Local Members, Littlehempston Parish Council and local community groups continued to press for this as a key link for a public right of way linking all Parish north of the River Dart with Totnes and to help promote locally sustainable travel for the public and tourism for the area. The HATOC had been disappointed with the outcome of discussions held at senior level between the railway and Council over the summer and that the public use of the SDR owned bridge had not been able to be agreed. It was suggested that an alternative crossing point and bridge would be beyond the scope of funding by the local community.
Whilst SDR had expressed security and safety issues, this Committee wished to work with the railway to find a solution for local residents and tourists alike. However given the protracted timeframe, members felt that if necessary compulsory purchase should also be considered. Officers reported their views that security and safety issues could frustrate any compulsory purchase and that, at this time, the scheme could not be supported as a priority within the County Council’s Cycling and Multi Use Strategy.
It was MOVED by Councillor Hodgson, SECONDED by Councillor Hawkins, and
RESOLVED: that given the lack of progress over time, Cabinet be recommended to investigate the public use of the pedestrian railway bridge by compulsory purchase if necessary, given its importance and benefit as a public amenity.