Consultation on possible new footpath

Please review the following proposal and indicate your support or not by emailing the Parish Clerk or Derek Chapman, no later than Friday 27th September 2019.

• Evidence has been submitted to Hampshire County Council (HCC) by a third party, on the basis of which a case is being considered for restoration of an old public footpath in Warnford by means of a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO)
• The footpath, which is shown on maps up to the 1920s, ran from the verge of the A32 south of the Middle Lodge entrance to the Park to Beaconhill Cottage – see Map 1 (line A-B)
• The route of the old footpath runs through what is now a private garden. Using it would mean walking along the A32 and it does not have a continuing route at its far end, so would be a cul-de-sac. Its value to the community now would therefore be very limited.
• HCC is suggesting that in lieu of making the DMMO, a new public footpath could be dedicated, linking the top of Beaconhill Lane (which is already a public footpath although not on the Definitive Map) to Warnford footpath 502 and thence to Beacon Hill – see Map 1 (line C-D)
• HCC’s proposal appears to have a considerable benefit in creating a new walking route from Warnford village - see Map 2. There would be a similar or greater benefit to Exton, with a circular route taking in Old Winchester Hill and Beacon Hill with little or none on roads. The off-road route from Old Winchester Hill to Beacon Hill would also be of wider benefit to Hampshire residents and others.
• The new footpath would actually be in Exton Parish, although very close to the boundary with Warnford
• Whether or not the proposal can go ahead depends on HCC reaching agreement with the relevant landowner(s), but the views of local people are important and will be taken into account.