Steve, John, Ted, Chris, Clare and Colin met 12th June 2022 at Factory Farm to work out how best to improve the bridleway from Factory lane (D) to the Detton – Prescott Bridleway (C).
Colin and Clare have already done some clearance work but the lower section does get very wet and can be impassable by the gate just before the river crossing.
Work required –
Clear out ditch above the first gate (on right side going up the path).
Lift out the metal gate and clear the build up of soil (hopefully there will be some hard standing under this)
Replace gate (might move it over to left slightly away from ditch) and adjust to make it easier to use.
Put down stone (grade 75mm down) under the gate area
Install large diameter pipe (ideally 12″ concrete pipe) under gateway into field on right to take water from ditch down to the river. Estimate approx 4-5 m length.
Material dug out can be spread on bank (to right of path going up) above river.
If time/finance allows also look at clearing out ditch on right of path above second gate across the bridleway leading to owners horses field.
Look at existing bridleway gate above this second crossing to see if this can be made easier to use.
Colin and Clare will take responsibility for how to stop water flowing into their field (eg open concrete channel with grid) and supply materials for this.
Priority will be bottom section but if time allows will improve ditch on right further up the route.
Materials – Stone approx 32 tonnes. 5 off 12″concrete pipe (usually comes in 1m sections) Note we do have some 9″ plastic pipe in store if required.
Stone can be unloaded at Johns and then moved by dumper (bridge will take weight of dumper but not larger lorry). Should be able to get dumper down to path.
Machinery – Digger and dumper (Steve/John)
We will need a clearance work party prior to starting any digger work.
ACTION: Chris to chase Council for contribution of stone and pipes.
ACTION: Chris/John to review budget and see if we can fund this work.