A dispute over a hazardous footpath crossing a railway line in the South Gloucestershire countryside near Charfield is headed to the government for resolution. The contested footpath, which runs from Poolfield Farm across the Bristol-to-Birmingham railway to New Street, has been officially closed for several years. Network Rail, citing safety, seeks to permanently close the crossing.
Currently, a “permissive path” serves as a temporary route for pedestrians, but councillors on the public rights of way committee have proposed extinguishing the official right of way. This move would also close the permissive path, prompting calls for government intervention.
The government could mandate Network Rail to construct a safer alternative, such as a tunnel or bridge beneath the railway embankment. Mark Rosher, chairman of Charfield Parish Council, emphasized the importance of the route for local residents who frequently use it for exercise and travel between Charfield village and the nearby Huntingford hamlet.
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Rosher noted that the simple tunnel solution was never fully considered and that, although building costs are substantial, they are small compared to the £34 million projected for the new Charfield railway station. He also pointed out that the village’s rapidly growing population, fueled by new housing developments, increases both the demand for and the financial ability to support infrastructure improvements like a tunnel.
On the other hand, Network Rail insists the alternative permissive path is safer and more accessible. James Audley of Network Rail argued that the expense and complexity of constructing a bridge or tunnel cannot be justified based on the scale of local development or available funding.
This longstanding disagreement continues as the village grows, raising concerns from both safety advocates and residents who value the footpath as a vital community asset. The government’s decision will be pivotal in determining whether the crossing remains closed or whether a new, safer crossing is constructed.