Issue - meetings
PROW – Copmanthorpe Level Crossing Closure, proposed diversion of Public Footpath Copmanthorpe No2
Meeting: 17/05/2022 - Decision Session - Executive Member for Transport (Item 70)
This report seeks support from the Executive Member to implement a proposed diversion of a Public Footpath in Copmanthorpe.
Additional documents:
- Annex 1 Location map, item 70
PDF 369 KB
- Annex 2 Proposed Diversion, item 70
PDF 228 KB
- Annex 3_Proposed Stepped Footbridge Design, item 70
PDF 2 MB
- Annex 4_EqIA Final, item 70
PDF 705 KB
Decision:
Resolved:
i. Rejected Network Rail’s application to divert the footpath via a stepped footbridge at Beckett’s Crossing.
Reason: As the proposed footbridge would not provide provisions to allow disabled pedestrians to use the crossing. The footbridge proposal being unlight and enclosed was also considered to be an unsafe crossing particularly at night.
Minutes:
Network Rail had requested that the Executive Member provide approval for the closure of a rail crossing to allow for improvements on the track and a replacement footbridge be installed. Officers confirmed that the decision could be taken to the Secretary of State if objections were received.
The Executive Member noted that he felt the proposed footbridge would not be accessible to some users with disabilities and that while not ideal the current crossing was more accessible. It was confirmed that officers had proposed a ramped bridge to increase the accessibility. However, it was confirmed that there had been some challenges with land access for a ramped bridge to be built on and Network Rail currently were not including one within their design. The Executive Member noted that he also had concerns about the foot bridges proposal lacking lighting and being enclosed, noting that safer provisions for pedestrians could have been proposed. Finally he also noted that while it was currently an ambition and not identified as a cycle route, he would like to see a route which provided a cycle path linking Copmanthorpe and Bishopthorpe explored.
Resolved:
i. Rejected Network Rail’s application to divert the footpath via a stepped footbridge at Beckett’s Crossing.
Reason: As the proposed footbridge would not provide provisions to allow disabled pedestrians to use the crossing. The footbridge proposal being unlit and enclosed was also considered to be an unsafe crossing particularly at night.