Colehill Footpaths On Agenda

Walkers battle to retain right to Colehill footpaths.

The land in question is adjacent to the Vineries, just behind Tops Nursery, and was once owned by the National Trust. This was sold to Capital Developments who have since closed off the area to the public. But walkers have their chance to voice their objection again in an inquiry being held at Colehill Sports and Social Club on Tuesday the 9th November at 10 am.

The area is a popular choice for dog walking and leisure, and there is evidence that Colehill residents have used the paths since 1967. Walkers were stopped from using the paths six years ago when Capital Developments erected barbed wire fences, which they claim were there simply to replace old fencing damaged over the years. Residents contested this but were denied by Dorset County Council, but successfully appealed and had the decision overturned by a Government Inspector. Capital Developments lodged an appeal which is being heard at the inquest.

Why should the residents of Colehill not have the area for walking, and why should a development firm come along and build houses on it? The council has plans for more affordable housing around Wimborne so why should this site also be added to that growing number? Shouldn’t residents be allowed to use the area to walk their dogs as they have done in the past? I think they should, and I also think it’s disgusting that commercial reasons are even being considered over the resident’s rights to walk their dogs on land they have done so for over thirty years.