Herts CC is investigating problems on High Wych Footpath 001. At the High Wych Road entrance the landowner has recently enclosed the field the footpath crosses with a wooden fence. Access for walkers is via an inappropriate set of stiles at each end of the enclosure which do not comply with the County’s standards.
The landowner has also created a ‘permissive’ path that follows the edge of the field but signage installed suggests that this is the actual route of the public footpath. A ‘permissive’ path as it’s name suggests is created by the landowner and can be closed to the public as and when they see fit. Consequently, we always encourage the public to continue to use the actual route of the public footpath.
There is a High Wych Parish Council meeting on 12th January 2026. My husband Gareth Emanuel has requested this to be discussed under AOB. He has also reported it to EHDC and HCC as an illegal act. We would welcome any support you may be able to provide either before or at the meeting.
with thanks
Linda & Gareth Emanuel
(We are both members of Stort Valley Ramblers)