Horses on Cycle Path

Foot path / Cycle path on Narcot Lane, linking Chalfont St Peter to Chalfont St Giles

Guidance from Bucks County Council - Horses are not permitted on the tarmac path but are permitted on grass verges.

The South Bucks local press carried in August 2013 complaints from residents and pedestrians of horse riders on the new path along Narcot Lane. The main problem was signage. Although there is a blue sign with a walker and a cyclist showing, there is no sign explicitly prohibiting a horse and rider. The Hodgemoor Riding Association therefore raised this issue with Bucks CC who have in the last days confirmed as follows:

“The surfaced Footway/cycleway has been specifically designated for this purpose, therefore horse riders should not be using the surfaced route. It is permitted that members of the public may utilise a section of Highway verge for the purpose of safety. Riders do so at their own risk and I ask them to adopt appropriate care and attention when doing so, so as not to cause concern to other path users in the area.”

The Hodgemoor Riding Association has advised its members of this clarification of the law and is cooperating in helping get riders off the tarmac path. Bucks CC also agreed to put up waterproof signs clarifying this issue. There will also be, when stock can be found, circular signs showing that horse riders are not permitted on the tarmac path. Full details of the letters and signage can be seen at www.hodgemoor.org.uk/downloads.

We are pleased to have played a role in getting the law understood and in helping all users to feel their interests have been upheld.

Marcus Bicknell, chairman Hodgemoor Riding Association
www.hodgemoor.org.uk / info@hodgemoor.org.uk