Just a reminder. Zoom details, sent to all members via email.
If you are not a member and would like to attend please get in touch via the contacts page.
South Somerset Bridleways Association
Promoting safer routes for riders
Just a reminder. Zoom details, sent to all members via email.
If you are not a member and would like to attend please get in touch via the contacts page.
Every five years, the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) team create a Management Plan to help guide the work and activities of all organisations, groups and individuals with a responsibility or interest in the Blackdown Hills.
You can read about the current management plan on the website: https://blackdownhillsaonb.org.uk/our-work/management-plan/
Please Click here to complete the questionnaire to say what you would like for equestrians in the Blackdown Hills.
A communication from the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) directing the council to determine the three applications for routes in Chilworthy (Ilminster/Donyatt/Combe St. Nicholas area).
In theory, the council must process them by the end of 2024 (18 months from now), so at least it moves these three forward.
The bridleway, Forest Lane and Brooms Lane, path numbers CH 7/22 and CH 11/14, which runs from Combe St. Nicholas to Donyatt, has become impassable due to overgrowth of brambles, poaching around the stream crossing, and a very awkward gate.
We have agreed with the area warden that she is going to close the path until the autumn. As the path will be officially closed, it places it high up the queue for remedial works. These works will be commenced in September as soon as the bird nesting season is over. Starting from the Combe St. Nicholas end, the planned works are:
We never like hearing that a path is going to be closed on a temporary basis, but if it means it will be put into better order sooner rather than later, we are happy to support the council. After the path is reopened, it will be added to the list for biannual vegetation clearance.
We are seeking anyone willing to give evidence that two bridleways have been used for riding. Somerset Council have now refused the applications on Thornhill Drove or Ash Drove near Ash, Martock (TA12). Any user evidence from the past ten years is welcome to keep these two bridleways of the map.
We will appeal this as evidence becomes available.
Competition time!
Go to https://southsomersetbridlewaysassociation.co.uk/ssba-competition-2023 to submit your entries.
Good luck and happy riding.