A GROUP of local residents are trying to have a popular footpath in Bratton re-opened to the public and they need the public’s help.
The Watercress Walk as it is known by local people, runs alongside the edge of Luccombe Mill in Bratton and although it is never been a designated public footpath it has been used by walkers for over 60 years, say the residents.
But in August new owners of Luccombe Mill have taken away the access stiles, put barbed wire fencing at both entrances and put a ‘Private Property. No Public Right of Way’ sign on the fence subsequently closing the pathway.
Now, local residents are putting together an application to Wiltshire Council to have Watercress Walk made into a public right of way.
Liz Workman who used the path regulary said, “We would like the path to be re-opened because it completes a very beautiful walk along the valley at the foot of the Picquet Hill and takes the walker back out on to the Imber Road.
“The path is also of historic interest because it used to be the site of old watercress beds. One section is a raised path with water on either side which connects by an iron bridge to the second section which follows the edge of the field through mature trees finally exiting over a second stile (now removed) to Imber Road.
“We are in the process of preparing an application to submit to Wiltshire County Council Right of Way team for them to designate the path as a public right of way. With that in mind we need users of the path to complete witness statements to provide evidence of it’s use.”
Katherine Beaumont who is also campaigning for the re-opening of the path said, “Since I moved to the area a year ago, I have used the pathway faithfully and it’s a magical walk.
“It’s hugely disappointing, not just for us who have used the walk, it’s such a shame for the young people in the area who will potentially never get to use it. It’s important for future generations.
“I feel very passionately about this and I hope lots of others do as well. We really hope people get in touch with us. In particular, we need to hear from those who have used the path regularly over many years or perhaps have memories of using it in the past. We need 15-100 statements for the application to Wiltshire Council, so please do get in touch.”
Phil Workman who is preparing the application said, “We are following procedure and want to do everything properly. The procedure is to give notice to the owner of Luccombe Mill of our application and then submit the witness statements to Wiltshire Council who will then consider the application.
“People were very respectful of the walk as well. We have never seen any litter or dog fouling and it has enjoyed by many people for over 60 years. It would be such a shame if we’re not successful.”
If you would like to get involved and provide a witness statement, contact Phil and Liz on pworkman_99@yahoo.co.uk or 01380 830911 or Katherine Beaumont on 01380 830433 or email kat.beaumont@gmx.co.uk
