Brinkworth Footpath

 It was reported in the BPC October Minutes that Phase 2 of the footpath from Barnes Green to Lower Box Bush Farm would no longer be progressed. Cllr Smith confirmed that the WC Drainage Department had reported that the ditch along the B4042 could not be piped because it is an essential part of the existing land drainage system and any work to fill the ditch and not affect the drainage would be technically complex and cost prohibitive.  Furthermore the narrowness of the carriageway means that a footway cannot be built out into the road.   

The result is that a kerbed tarmac pavement along this stretch of the B4042 is not feasible.  However, to make it easier for residents walking here, the Parish Council commissioned the cutting back of the overgrown hedges along the verge.  Additionally, the Council Highways department has dug out the ditch and laid the soil onto the verge, flattening it out to make a refuge for pedestrians, as has been done successfully in Dauntsey. Cllr Smith confirmed that since every option had been explored and it has been impossible to find a way of installing a footpath here it should, after six years, be removed from the LHFIG (Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group – WC) list. The meeting agreed.