The residents of Claremont Avenue and Claremont Drive, Timperley are attempting to remove the historic right of way between Attenburys Lane and Manchester Road and eventually erect gates at all three access points.

Many users of Claremont, especially those that are elderly and/or disabled, rely on the fact that it provides an easy access from the ‘Bollin Drive estate’ to Manchester Road.

Without it, it would mean users would have to walk 4 times as far to find a safe route to the nearest buses and other amenities etc. 

Many people can testify to using this route unchallenged for over 40 years. Some for over 50yrs.

In 2011 the Council signed a consent order agreeing that Claremont Drive has no public right of way.

Although there was a period of public consultation after the erection of a gate, it was very limited and large numbers of people were unaware, and of those few who were, many were not aware of its implications.

Subsequently, a great deal of evidence which could possibly have been used to rebut any claim that there was no right of way, was not able to be considered.

Those that were able to give their opinions and have their say, became frustrated at the Council’s lack of support, but given a right of way still apparently existed along the more popular route of Claremont Avenue, they reluctantly accepted the siting of the gate. 

Sometime before June this year the Council was apparently asked to consider its opinion on whether Claremont Avenue had any public right of way.

Again a period of inadequate consultation took place, with only a few users of Claremont being aware that it was happening or of its implications.

We are concerned that many users are still unaware or being prevented from providing evidence.

A request was made in early November to extend the period of consultation but this has been refused.

Requests for information about when a decision is to be made and by whom in respect of Claremont Avenue, and the strength of evidence provided with regard to the ‘Consent Order’ have been ignored, this is despite acceptance that there is a statutory obligation on the Council to provide it within 20 days. 

The lack of response by Mr Flynn and staff has only fuelled a belief that the Council have failed to look after the greater needs of its residents (some vulnerable) in accordance with its own policies, either to save money or for more sinister reasons.

It is believed the majority of Claremont Residents are opposed to any ‘gating off’ or claims to ‘no right of way’ and have felt pressurised by a very small minority into supporting it.

The siting of gates opens up a whole list of practical and safety issues, which may need to be considered at a later date. Probably the most important being the risk caused by vehicles entering Claremont Drive and being unable to gain access would be forced, with no alternative, to reverse out blindly back onto Manchester Road.

This issue should be about the protection of the rights of individuals and future generations, often vulnerable in accordance with Council Policy, in a balanced and fair way.

If you are opposed to the removal of the right of way or can testify to 20 years unchallenged use, please sign the petition and tell your friends and family.