Herefordshire Council is intending to sell, to the highest bidder, the Backney Bridge Picnic Site, in Sellack/Bridstow, Ross, without any conditions that the public will have continued access,
Whilst acknowledging the Council is "cash strapped" for what ever reason, this is an iconic historic public open space, with one of the best views of the River Wye in Herefordshire, including the finest example of a disused “Herefordshire stone” railway bridge. Consequently I for one, believe this is a “step too far”
If the site is sold, any proposed plans (presently on the "back burner" because of cost) for a cycleway, over Backney Bridge to Ross, will be scuppered forever, as will the possibility (although controversial for some locals) of a canoe launch site, with continued public access
The Council cannnot expect the local Sellack and/or Bridstow Parish Councils to solely take on the burden of maintenance. This is not simply a local open space piece of grass verge, but a site for the benefit of all Herefordshire residents, and further afield. As such the Council should retain the site and, at the very least, share the maintenance costs with the Parish Council/s concerned or, if it has to sell the site, it should be on condition that public access rights will remain
I would urge the Council to think again and, if you, please put your objections in writing to Helen Beale, Estates Management Officer, Herefordshire Council, PO Box 4, Plough Lane, Hereford HR4 0LE or by email to hbeale@herefordshire.gov.uk by 12th June as the Council must, by law, consider any objections received before making a final decision
Remember, as with the 1960’s Beeching Rail Line Cuts, once gone, its gone for good !!
Jane Robinson
Kinsleigh Cottage
Sellack
Ross-on-Wye
HR9 6LU
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