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16
Apr
Last Updated: 16/04/2024
Environment Secretary urged to speed up repair on Ripon riverside path
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay is being called on to speed up repairs to a length of riverside footpath in Ripon.
A section of the path that runs from Borrage Green Lane to High Cleugh is in danger of collapsing into the River Skell and has been blocked off with six foot high fencing at either end.
Parts of the path on the popular riverside route have been undercut by high and fast-running waters caused by higher than average rainfall.
Councillor Andrew Williams near the affected part of the path that has been fenced off.
Ripon City Council leader Andrew Williams, who also represents the Minster and Moorside division on North Yorkshire Council, told members at Monday night's full meeting:
"A long section of path is in a dangerous state and is currently not safe to use, so the North Yorkshire rights of way team has made it as safe as possible.
"They have also agreed to repair the path, but will only be able to do this when they have a permit from the Environment Agency to go into the river to carry out the work."
The recently-repaired wooden bridge over the Skell is part of the popular route.
Members agreed to Cllr Williams' proposal to call on Mr Barclay and Ripon's MP Julian Smith to intervene on the city's behalf to ensure the Environment Agency issues the permit as soon as possible, so repairs can be carried out when the river drops to a safe level.
Cllr Pauline McHardy, who seconded the proposal, said:
"This footpath is supposed to be accessible to wheelchair users and families with prams and buggies and we need to ensure that it is returned to a condition that enables it to be enjoyed by everyone."
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