News & Events

Bilton to Ripley Sustrans Route

Harrogate Council has taken the crucial step required to create the Bilton to Ripley route. It has advertised a Bridleway Creation Order (above) to enforce the right of way which has been resisted by some of the landowners affected. This means there is now for the first time a set timetable to complete the path.

It is anticipated that at least one landowner will object, in which case an inspector will have to be appointed and an inquiry held. This could delay the project by a year or so, but construction is nevertheless expected to be completed next year.

It is most important that as many people as possible respond in support before the 20 March deadline to the address shown – Head of Legal and Democratic Services etc. You can also email:
Jayne Williams
for Solicitor to the Council
at jayne.williams@harrogate.gov.uk

This is the response sent in by one supporter. Please use your own words, and include as much or as little detail as you prefer.

"Harrogate Bridleway No. 1
Nidd Bridleway No. 15.99/2, Ripley Bridleway No. 15.111/10
Bilton Lane to Killinghall Bridge Creation Order 2009
I wish to offer strong support for the above Order creating a public bridleway between Bilton Lane, Harrogate and Killinghall Bridge, Ripley.

I am a resident of Harrogate and a regular walker and cyclist in the area. My grounds for supporting the Order are as follows.

Amenity. The proposed route gives greatly improved access for myself, walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and wheelchair users to the countryside and attractions of Ripley and beyond to Nidderdale, the Washburn Valley, Fountains Abbey and the Ripon area. It will provide an important link in the Sustrans network of traffic-free routes. In particular, it will greatly facilitate the creation of a traffic-free route between Harrogate and Ripon, which is badly needed.

Safety. The route will either eliminate or greatly reduce the use of the A61 by myself and other users. Presently, on many of my cycle rides, I have to emerge from Knox Lane and ride along the A61 through Killinghall to Ripley. The A61 is one of the most dangerous roads in the country and it is heavily used by lorries, buses, local and national traffic. It is a serious hazard to cyclists, walkers, horse-riders and wheelchair users. In addition, to reach Knox Lane I have to ride on suburban roads through Bilton. If the Order is confirmed I will be able to avoid these roads and stay on a traffic-free route for most of the way.

Tourism. The proposed route will attract tourists to the Harrogate and Ripley area. For example, it will enhance the attractions of the Gardeners’ Arms public house on Bilton Lane and those of Ripley Castle.

Health. The proposed route will encourage exercise and healthy outdoor recreation for residents of the district and visitors.

Yours sincerely..............."

Disclaimer:
All rides are at your own risk. Please ensure that you have your own third party insurance (check your house insurance) and consider CTC membership.