Protesters step up battle to protect old packhorse route

Derbyshire County Council has announced that Long Causeway is to be legally classified as a Byway Open to All Traffic, or BOAT.

The three-mile track, which is part of an old former packhorse route, has never been classified before and has therefore always been legitimate for motor use. This new status will continue to give off-roaders the right to use it.

Long Causeway, which crosses Stanage Edge, has been named as one of four “priority” Peak District routes that Friends of the Peak District has identified as needing the “most urgent” action.

John King, planning officer at the campaign group, said: “In some ways this is good news, because it means that the whole question of protecting this iconic green lane is being raised.

“We can’t argue with the new classification – clearly Long Causeway has been used by horses and carts for centuries so unfortunately, vehicles today have rights there too.

“But we want this changing. Recreational 4x4 drivers and trail bikers are ripping up this lane, as well as ruining the peace and enjoyment of other people.”

Friends of the Peak District held a protest rally at Long Causeway last summer, demanding that both Derbyshire County Council and the Peak District National Park Authority took action to close the Peak District’s most sensitive tracks to off-roaders.

Mr King added: “We want to see Long Causeway closed to off-roaders for good.”