The Fonnereau Way – a success story [at the moment]
RA members, and others, will be pleased to know that the Inspector in her second report has modified her decision to include the Railway foot-crossing and all paths northward to Lower Road Westerfield.
Much evidence has been considered from local Ramblers and others whose use of this path now dates back to 1935 – well before the Transport Act of 1949 which was the keystone of Network Rail’s objection.
Research at the County Record Office over Inclosure Awards [1809] and Maps relating to the original Railway construction [c1856] plus a letter from Westerfield in 1947 were all a part of the argument presented. The legal arguments of John Andrews – now in Scotland – and the RA legal team were not tested but had been submitted. Wilfred George’s map of the area also featured.
It should now be added to the Ipswich Definitive Map, unless the objectors appeal, within 6 weeks, to the High Court! Roger Wolfe, who chose the name, led a cheerful group across the line and along the paths 3 days after the decision was received. It’s an important link between Ipswich and the extensive network of paths to the north.
Geoff Knight
Walkers
being led by Roger over
the controversial crossing - thanks to Roger for the
photos.
