A spokesperson for Severn Trent Water has updated us on their activity at Ladybower, as closures of the reservoir side track from Fairholmes to West End have begun (as of 12/9/2022).
Talking to us over email STW said that the works, which are necessary to remove diseased trees, will require heavy machinery on the road hence the closure. Severn Trent said, “We know this will cause some inconvenience to users but because of the challenges around this particular operation we don’t have another option but to close the section of track between Derwent Dam and West End on the western side of Derwent and Howden. This is to make sure we can keep visitors safe.”
While the forestry road to Lockerbrook (the big wide forest road from just after the cattle grid) will remain accessible to provide connectivity over towards or from Rowlee Farm and Hagg Farm descents, Lockerbrook/Gores Wood and Hagg Side bridleways will be blocked.
As a favourite amongst us all, this is an obvious concern and we asked STW about how the Lockerbrook/Gores bridleway will be affected. Peak District MTB have maintained that section in recent years, providing drainage, clearing soakaways and at one point recovering and rebuilding a french drain, hidden under the track.
“There is a closure in place but that is more to do with the fact that the track will come out onto the felling area which is closed,” added Severn Trent.
The company understands there will be some felling towards the bottom of the track, but assure us that they will aim to make sure the bridleway is not affected, though any impacts will be put right before reopening.
We will of course aim to work closely with Severn Trent on ensuring the character of the trail is maintained.
> Snakes and Ladders – STW Update 8/22
> Bridleway Maintenance Gores February 2019
