Councillors seek clarity on path diversion
Liberal Democrat councillors have called on City of York Council bosses to reveal details of a diversion route to be created whilst a well-used path connecting two York villages is temporarily out of action.
The council has temporarily closed the Rufforth to Knapton bridleway after discovering that the wooden bridge over Foss Beck near Harewood Whin was in worse condition than had been anticipated. The path may be closed until 14th November 2024, unless work is completed sooner. These works will remove the one safe route between the villages that is well-used by walkers and cyclists, including students getting to and from Manor School. Local businesses also likely to be affected by a drop in footfall.
The formal Closure Notice states that “An alternative route for diverted vehicles will not be signed during the works period.” However, a recent City of York Council post on Facebook stated “We're working on an alternative route and we're sorry for any inconvenience.”
Liberal Democrat councillors have called on the Council to clarify what alternative route is to be provided for cyclists and pedestrians during the period of the closure.
In response to Liberal Democrat Councillors’ call for clarity on what alternative route is to be provided for cyclists and pedestrians during the period of the closure, the Council has since confirmed that they are working on diversion routes for the path or a temporary bridge structure.
Liberal Democrat Councillor for Rural West, Councillor Anne Hook said:
“The sudden closure of the route with no immediate diversion is a real blow to residents, and business owners have contacted us to press for the council to make alternative arrangements for safe pedestrian and cycle access. The mixed messages from the council aren’t helping, so it is good that we finally have some clarity that the Council is looking into alternative routes.
“We hope that the Council will act swiftly to confirm which of the alternative routes will be secured and when residents can expect it to be in place.”
Rural West York Councillor Emilie Knight added:
“Currently, children in Rufforth who attend Manor School and children in Knapton who attend Rufforth Primary School are no longer able to safely cycle there. Those travelling into York for work are left with the option of driving or risking cycling on the extremely busy B1224 road.
“Liberal Democrats in administration helped secure the creation of this cycle and pedestrian route in order to make active modes of travel safer and more attractive. Local councillors and parish councillors need to be consulted on diversion plans so we can ensure that the needs of residents and businesses are met.”