A public right of way is set to be stopped up and another will be diverted on land where a new housing estate is being constructed in Stoke-on-Trent.

Walkers will still be able to pass through the land off Caverswall Lane in Meir, using a new estate road, but the current path will be obstructed by development.

Planning permission for 169 new homes was granted in 2022. On Thursday (August 17), Stoke-on-Trent City Council's Public Rights of Way Panel held its first meeting in two years, where members backed the changes which will now be advertised as orders.

A report to Thursday's meeting said: "As a result of the (planning approval) two footpaths, that are not currently recorded on the Definitive Map and Statement for the City of Stoke-on-Trent but are accepted by the landowner, would require realignment in order for the development to take place. This action should be completed before any part of the development that affects the right of way is substantially completed.

"The reason for the permanent closure of (the first path) is that it would be obstructed by properties and a balancing pond. The only reasonable alternative route to divert onto has been identified as the line of one of the proposed estate roads; as the estate road will provide appropriate facilities for pedestrians such a diversion is not considered appropriate.

Nearly 200 new homes are currently being built on land off Caverswall Lane in Meir (Nub News).

"The diversion of (the second path) will retain the open feel of the path until it reaches the development, where it links to the new estate road. It would be as simple to stop up the footpath but by diverting it onto the proposed line it will keep the connectivity to the surrounding rights of way and highway network."

The ward councillor has supported the proposals, the report added. And representatives of the Ramblers' and the Peak and Northern Footpath Society "have produced no expressions of support or opposition to the proposals".

"The cost of making and advertising the orders will be £5,000," the report said. "This cost will be met by the developer of the land concerned.

"If the order is opposed, and any objections are not withdrawn after negotiations, it will be necessary to forward the order to the Secretary of State to determine how the case will be dealt with and this may be by way of a Public Inquiry. The costs of holding the Inquiry must be met by the council but the costs of defending the order will be met by the developer."

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