New public footpath given green light despite objections over road safety
A parish council is set to create a new public footpath despite objections over road safety.
Thorpe Arch Parish Council sought planning permission for a new path on Wood Lane in the village near Wetherby.
Leeds City Council received 23 objections to the proposal from people who raised concerns including the it’s proximity to passing traffic.
Conservative ward councillor Norma Harrington said the location of the path was not in line with the area’s Neighbourhood Plan.
She wrote: “It would now run adjacent to an unlit country lane, less than two feet from live traffic and has the potential to expose pedestrians to unreasonable risk.”
Some objectors said the new path in the Thorpe Arch Conservation Area would not be wide enough.
One wrote: “The proposal is not suitable to be classed as a public right of way.”
Seven letters of support were also received from people who said the path would make a walking route the Ebor Way safer.
Community group Leeds Ramblers also supported the proposal, which will be discussed by the city’s North and East plans panel on Thursday, February 19.
Council officers have recommended it for approval, subject to conditions including a 30mph speed limit on the road.
A planning report said: “The proposed footpath is to be constructed in crushed limestone, a material appropriate to its countryside setting.
“The proposal would allow for enhanced access within the countryside, furthering its role as a recreational resource.”