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23
Jun
Circular bridleway in Crimple Valley finally opened up for the first time
A circular walk around the Crimple Valley has been made possible for the first time after a landowner fulfilled his obligations under a council order.
Most of the route, part of which runs alongside about 14 arches of the Crimple railway viaduct, has been passable for walkers, cyclists and horseriders for many years.
The Crimple Bridleway and the Railway Bridleway almost joined up to create a loop around the valley, but were separated by a stretch less than 10 metres long that crossed land owned by businessman Craig Eastwood. He declined to give permission for the new stretch, citing concerns that an increase in footfall would damage his land and dogs off leads could scare his livestock.
Bridleway 61 (blue) and bridleway 129 (orange) can now be joined by Rudding Park's Railway Bridleway (green) following the Order to create the new stretch (red).
But North Yorkshire councillors decided that joining up the two existing bridleways via this short stretch would be in the public interest and in 2023 issued North Yorkshire Council Public Bridleway No 15.43/14 Crimple Viaduct, Follifoot Creation Order 2023.
The move was supported by more than 100 members of the public as well as groups including the British Horse Society, Cycling UK and the Ramblers.
However, objections were made regarding trespass, sheep-worrying, dog-fouling, litter, fire, anti-social behaviour, damage to fences and gates, parking problems and access issues.
This picture of the new gate was taken from where the old bridleway ended.
But a government inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was unconvinced and in February this year confirmed the council’s 2023 creation order.
Mr Eastwood then had 42 days to challenge the decision in the High Court – a period that ended on March 24.
Since then, it is understood that Mr Eastwood has been working with the council and contractors to clear vegetation from his stretch of land, create a dry pathway, and install a new gate.
But more vegetation still needs to be cleared, and the notice boards have yet to be updated.
The sign still shows the old route, with its dead end.
Andrew Willoughby, vice-chair of the Harrogate Group of Ramblers, told the Stray Ferret:
It’s great news. The legal decision was the main thing, and now that it’s been opened up, it’s great.
I remember a late friend of mine telling me about a dispute in this area perhaps as far back as the 1960s. Its history is very complicated – possibly unique.
It’s just unfortunate that it’s not been open for the last 50 years, but mistakes occur.
I’m very pleased it’s finally open, and I’m hoping to help out with the volunteer efforts to cut back vegetation to make it more passable.
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