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23
Nov 2020
Swinsty reservoir footpath diversion 'too muddy to walk'
A visitor to Swinsty reservoir last weekend has complained that the new temporary footpath is already too muddy to walk.
Yorkshire Water announced last week the footpath would close for 18 months to allow it to undertake £6 million safety works.
The company warned the route was uneven and "sometimes wet" and therefore unsuitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
It added walkers should wear "suitable footwear" but it seems even those with sturdy boots and wellies may need to find a new walk for the time being.
Read more:
- Swinsty Reservoir footpath to close for 18 months
- Yorkshire Water launches affordable scheme for young farmers
A Stray Ferret reader, who asked to remain anonymous, contacted us on Sunday to say his family walk deteriorated into a quagmire. The reader said:
'Swinsty is the busiest it has ever been'
The reservoir, in the Washburn Valley, is a popular location for families and dog walkers in the Harrogate district.
Graham Hebblethwaite, the chairman of Washburn Parish Council, today told the Stray Ferret it had never been busier - and this was causing problems.
Mr Hebblethwaite even said some locals were planning to move to escape the issues.
Yorkshire Water is diverting excess water from the reservoir to Lindley Wood reservoir to protect the embankment from flood erosion.
A spokesperson for the company told the Stray Ferret:
Yorkshire Water also encouraged anyone worried about the diversion route to visit other reservoirs, such as Fewston and Thruscross.
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