Issue - meetings

RESOLVED:  That for applications for temporary closures on rights of way on the Thames Path and the Blackwater Valley Footpath for special events the following policy will be adopted:

1)        prior consultation will be carried out with the following groups: The Ramblers’ Association, The Open Spaces Society, Natural England, the relevant Parish Council and the ward member/s for the area through which the path is situated;  and

2)        the decision as to whether a closure will be made will be taken by the Executive.

The Executive considered a report relating to the procedure for dealing with Special Event Temporary Closures on Public Rights of Way.  The procedure, as recommended by a Working Group established by the Executive in 2014, sets out how the Council would consult on future applications for closure for events held on high profile recreational routes such as the Thames Path and the Blackwater Valley Path. 

The Executive Member for Environment highlighted that the procedure had been developed in light of experience resulting from the annual temporary closure of a right of way for the Henley Festival and the outcome of a working party looking into how local ward Members and local residents could be provided with additional comfort regarding the process followed.  However, the recommendations within the report would be applicable to all similar requests for temporary closures, not only for the Henley Festival.

RESOLVED:  That for applications for temporary closures on rights of way on the Thames Path and the Blackwater Valley Footpath for special events the following policy will be adopted:

1)        prior consultation will be carried out with the following groups: The Ramblers’ Association, The Open Spaces Society, Natural England, the relevant Parish Council and the ward member/s for the area through which the path is situated;  and

2)        the decision as to whether a closure will be made will be taken by the Executive.