Group invites public to try out country routes

HORSE riders, cyclists, runners and walkers have been invited to try two new circular routes through green belt land between Leeds and Bradford.

A group of Pudsey Civic Society members, supported by Leeds Council, formed the Pudsey Parish Paths Partnership 14 years ago to investigate ancient rights of way.

It was soon realised that although the footpaths formed a reasonable network, the bridleways were so fragmented that they were almost unusable.

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To better connect the sections of bridleway a group of volunteers have been developing the Pudsey Link, a route starting in Tong village.

It then continues through Fulneck, Bankhouse, Smalewell, Wild Grove, Thornbury, Ravenscliffe and Calverley woods before ending at Apperley Bridge.

The link could eventually create a long-distance off-road route connecting Oakwell Hall and the Spen Valley Trail to the south, and Baildon Moor and Bingley St Ives to the north.

A Pudsey Link group spokesman, David Badger, said: “Unfortunately the present economic climate has caught up with the project.

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“The final obstacle to the route is crossing the busy A647 dual carriageway at Thornbury.”

The cost of a special crossing would be over £300,000 and currently the money is not available. Walkers and cyclists can cross using a toucan crossing at Gain Lane but horse riders cannot.

Two bridleway loops have been developed for riders. One is the ‘Fulneck Loop’, the other ‘Calverley Loop’.

Leaflets with maps showing the routes have been produced and they are available from local pubs and shops or by post from Leeds Parks and Countryside, Farnley Hall, Leeds. email: [email protected]

Mr Badger added: “The group still hope that one day we will complete the Pudsey Link by creating a safe crossing of the A647. Until then we hope everyone will enjoy the loops.”