Residents Clash Over Lincoln Footpath Closure
A dispute over the closure of a footpath in Lincoln used as a shortcut from Middlebrook Estate to Doddington Road has prompted a public inquiry. The footpath, which has been a significant part of community life, has sparked a disagreement between residents and the current landowner, Paul Hawes.
Residents' Accounts
Ron Everett and George Gilbert, both long-term residents, voiced their objections at the public meeting on September 19 and 20. They stood firmly by the footpath's importance to the area residents and their daily lives.
"My use of the route has never been challenged until a chap named Paul erected temporary fencing and built a bungalow there. It’s been an established route much appreciated by a wide variety of people on the estate. Youngsters, middle-aged and elderly alike — it has been a real asset to the community.” said Mr. Everett, who has been using the footpath since 1957.
Mr Gilbert shared his memories of the area, reminiscing how the lane was an enjoyable place for local children to play.
“The children of the Wimpey Estate used the farm as a play area; it was a great place to grow up." he stated.
Landowner's Defence
Mr Hawes, who bought the land in 2008, countered that he had a right to close the footpath. He claimed he invested in access rights with the previous owners and had sometimes let residents use the route. According to him, the footpath is not a public right of way.
"I had a conversation with the council, and we spoke about closing the route. They said they couldn’t stop me from closing it if I wished, because it’s not a public footpath. I offered the council a piece of land and to tarmac the footpath, saying I would pay for this. They said they couldn’t afford the upkeep of the path in the future." Hawes said via his representative, Andy Dunlop.
Council's Rebuttal
David Kerfoot, the council's solicitor, refuted Mr Hawes' claims, stating that the deed does not confer exclusive rights but rather provides an easement only. He said Hawes had ample time since 2008 to gather evidence for his arguments but has failed to do so.
Continued Disputes
The public inquiry also saw disagreements over the relevance of local bus routes. Residents maintained that the footpath offered crucial access to a specific bus route, while Mr Hawes contended other unused bus routes were previously available but had been cancelled.
The planning inspectorate will determine the final outcome later this year.