Residents of Mill Lane who had been trying to find out why the concrete surface of a well-used path has been removed have learned that Swindon Borough Council has decided to close the path. The short stretch of path rises from Mill Lane to the Old Town Railway Path, by the old railway bridge.
Old Town Councillor, Nadine Watts, says, “A constituent contacted me to ask why the concrete had been removed. I was shocked to find that the path is due to be closed without any consultation. The Council says that it is not a public right of way. But it has been used by the public for well over twenty years and that’s quite long enough to establish it as a right of way.”
Fellow Old Town Ward Councillor and regular cyclist, Jane Milner-Barry, has often used the path. Jane says, “The path is used by families out for a walk along the railway path as well as dog owners and cyclists. It is marked as an access point to the railway path on the Swindon Travel Choices map. The Council spokesman says there is no money to upgrade the path. In that case, why not leave it alone?”
Cllr Nadine Watts added, “Adults and children are constantly told to take more exercise to stay healthy. Closing footpaths isn’t going to help them do so. Swindon Borough Council needs to do some joined-up thinking”.
I can see no valid reaon to close this small section of footpath. Indeed, it acts as safe access to the old railway track.
Absurd decision
This is a wrong decision by SBC!… it costs nothing to speak of yet is of great benefit to a number of folk to access walking along the old railway line now footpath/cycle track …RETHINK NOW PLEASE SBC!!