Launton Footpath Wardens report on reopened footpaths

Launton Footpath News

At the beginning of February, the footpath 262/7/10 from the back of the Church across to Charbridge Lane was re-opened to walkers. A sign warning of pedestrians crossing will be placed on Charbridge Lane later.

The OCC Countryside map has more information at this url: https://publicrightsofway.oxfordshire.gov.uk/standardmap

News about the completion and opening of the Station Road footpath heading towards the new footbridge and the diversion of footpaths 27213, 272-20 and272-21 to join272-11, is still not definite.

See the rough plan on page 34 to help explain what is happening with these footpaths. All changes are being done under a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO). EWR are in touch with the landowners so they are aware of what is happening.

The routes shown in blue on the map on page 34 are the new routes that are being provided. Note that the route over the new railway bridge has already been accepted and added to the Definitive Map so is shown in purple.

The routes highlighted in red are the paths that are being extinguished. There are a few remedial works to be undertaken before accepting the new routes but as soon as these are completed the changes will be made on the Definitive Map and the paths will be opened for public use.

At the moment the route along the north side of the track is within a fenced area, the outer fence will be removed in due course. The paths should open before the fence is removed so a gap will be made to provide access onto footpath272/13.

We hope this is helpful.

We are also thinking of holding a celebration village walk in the summer to welcome the opening of the footpaths and our return to freedom!

Watch this space.

Lesley Thompson and Bob Roberts

Key to map of realigned footpaths north of Station Road

blue: new footpath still to be opened

purple: footpaths currently open and in use

red: footpaths to be extinguished

The map on the left illustrates the report on page 36 on the realignment of footpaths to the north of Station Road from Grange Farm to the new footbridge.

The photo above shows the new gates on footpath 262/7/10 from the back of the Church. The gates are across the new access road to The Tythe Barn, on the way to Charbridge Lane.