Campaigners in the village of Cwmparc, Rhondda, are intensifying efforts to restore access to a much-loved forestry road that has been recently blocked off by the installation of gates. The gates appeared in mid-February, placed by new homeowners, sparking outrage among locals who have enjoyed using the path for decades. Dog walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and even the local school have all been affected by the sudden restriction.
Initially met with silence from the gate owners, tensions rose as the community protested the decision. The family behind the gates eventually spoke out, stating that their private entrance had been misused, leading them to take action. However, residents of Cwmparc strongly disagree with this justification, feeling the closure of the path is a harsh and unnecessary blow to their community.
Dubbed ‘GateGate’, the campaign to reopen the forestry road is spearheaded by locals David Williams and Richard Clarke. They have submitted a comprehensive collection of evidence to the local council in a bid to prove that the gates are obstructing a public highway. The campaigners are optimistic about the strength of their case, believing it will withstand scrutiny and prompt the council to take action.
The group is now awaiting the council’s review of the evidence, a process that could take a few weeks. Depending on the outcome, the gates may be required to be removed if deemed an obstruction to public access. In parallel, efforts are underway to secure a Public Right of Way application, with support from ramblers’ organisations to bolster their case.
While the legalities surrounding the private land on which the gates stand are complex, Natural Resources Wales has clarified that there is a private right of way but not extended to the general public. Despite this, the community remains resolute in their commitment to seeing the gates taken down and the road reopened for recreational purposes.
A petition initiated by Mr. Clarke has garnered significant support, underlining the widespread backing for the campaign. The community’s determination to uphold their access to the forestry road is evident in the ‘No to the gate!’ signs and posters seen throughout Cwmparc and Treorchy.
The campaigners express gratitude for the solidarity shown by the community and pledge to keep everyone informed as progress unfolds. Their ultimate goal is to reinstate access to the forestry road, allowing residents to resume leisure activities and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Cwmparc.
As the situation continues to evolve, the ‘GateGate’ campaigners remain steadfast in their mission to rectify what they consider an unjust blockage of a historic pathway. With public support and legal backing, they hope to see a positive resolution that benefits the entire community of Cwmparc.