Ollerton – Peplow path

This is an update to a piece added to the website on 28th October 2020.

In 2016, aware that land over which the route runs across was up for sale, Stoke upon Tern Parish Council lodged an official claim with Shropshire Council to have the path legally recognised, and thus protected for future use. 

Aside from other matters, the legal process heavily depends upon past users of the route completing a simple ‘user statement’ – which covers matters such as the route used, the years it was used and whether or not its use was without restriction or challenge.

Whilst twenty eight user statements were submitted in 2016, not all of their evidence was accepted by Shropshire Council which recently rejected the claim.

Responding to strong local feeling about this and considering that the rejection decision was finely balanced; Stoke upon Tern Parish Council has now lodged an appeal against the decision with the Secretary of State.

Working alongside other local groups including a representative from the British Horse Society and neighbouring Parish Councils, Stoke upon Tern Parish Council is looking to further build its case for the recognition and protection of this important leisure amenity, but only has until the 11th January 2021 to do so.

The cornerstone to building a stronger case will be some more historic research, but that is hindered by many archives being closed due to Covid 19 related restrictions. With that in mind user statements take on a greater significance.

Aware that this is the last chance to make its case (if it fails no further process is available) Stoke upon Tern Parish Council is urging anyone else who has used this route in the past to get in touch.

A user statement pack is available from the Parish Council Clerk whose details are below.

You can contact the Parish Clerk on stokeparishcouncil@hotmail.co.uk, or ring 07792300702 (m) and leave a message with you details for a blank statement form