Newport village

Those horse riders, cyclists and walkers in the area may be interested to receive an update on what is happening about the blocked up Bridleway north of Canal Side East.

For a long time now the owners of Lorne Farm, which is the the most northerly building along Canal Side East (North of the Motorway), have not allowed access along the bridleway. At one time they claimed that the canal has somehow moved to where the bridleway was originally defined. I personally view the claim as preposterous.

But anyway, after a long period of deliberation, investigation and correspondence, ERYC tell me that they have decided to apply for what ERYC believe was the original route of the bridleway to be classified as a restricted By-Way.

This process will take an estimated 12 to 18 months, but when it is finished it will be illegal for anyone to impede the route by means of any gate, fence or other obstacle. The By-Way will be open to use by any non-propelled means, which excludes such vehicles as a motor bike or car.

It has taken about 15 years on and off to get this far, so a further 12 to 18 months wait will seem by comparison a short time.