for interest my reply back from Mike Rhodes and my letter to him.
Dear Mike
Thank you for your comments in relation to the experimental order prohibiting use by mechanically propelled vehicles at any time along the Chapel Gate route for an 18 month period.
Over the next 18 months the Authority will take into account all relevant information to consider whether to make a permanent traffic order or to vary or discontinue the restriction.
A report will be made to the appropriate committee in due course and you will be notified of the outcome of that. Any representations received will form part of the background papers to the report and will be made available for public inspection in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Access to Information Act 1985.
The Authority currently operates a procedure that allows individuals or organisations to address members at meetings of the committee. Details of this procedure can be obtained from Democratic Services at the National Park Office.
Updates will be given on
www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/chapelgate. Details on how we are managing recreational vehicles in the National Park can be found on
www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/vehicles.
Please note that is not usual practice to enter into further correspondence on issues raised in representations.
Mike Rhodes
Access and Rights of Way Manager
Peak District National Park Authority
Direct line: 01629 816289
Mobile: 07798 587756
e-mail:
mike.rhodes@peakdistrict.gov.uk To: Rhodes Mike
Subject: Chapelgate - objection to the permanent adoption of the experimental TRO
Dear Mr Rhodes,
Please register my objection to the permanent adoption of the experimental TRO for Chapel Gate on the basis that it is a Green lane amenity for all users and as a Motorcycle trail rider, restricting access to me with my motorcycle is taking away an amenity from me.
Over the years I have visited the Peak district more than 6 times per year to explore the peak district. Firstly as a child with my parents walking, then as a Boy Scout and Army Cadet walking and climbing. More recently as a Scout Leader and Parent with my own Children.
Now as a Diabetic, I do not have the energy to walk long distances but I can ride. I continue to visit the Peak District and regularly ride Chapel Gate. To close this lane to me would significantly curtail my enjoyment and take away my right to ride what is a Public Right of way and as such is a ROAD.
My Motorcycle does no real damage to the lane. I stick to the path without deviating, and I observe the voluntary one way request. My Motorcycle does not make excessive noise, it is taxed and fully insured. I ride at moderate speed in accordance with the TRF code ( to whit I am a member and Chairman of the Cambridgeshire Group) I respect other user’s rights and give way according to proper conduct without complaint. I do not leave litter or carve up private land. I ride with a map or am guided normally by a local.
As a responsible user of the Green Lanes I insure that those riding with me follow the same code as me and will report those that abuse it. I am fully aware that there are those that abuse the lanes not all of which are on Motorcycles.
Over the years I have spent a lot of Tourist Pounds in the Peak District and contribute to the overall economy of the region. The main amenity open to visitors to the Area are the lanes and to restrict them would be detrimental to that economy. Walkers bring extra cars to the area, trample “off Piste” and bring many other problems. I am sure people bring there horses but I suspect the majority of Horse Users are local. The main objectors are the locals and I am sure if they win with Motorised vehicles they will start on you to restrict parking for walkers from outside the area.
I think to have a limited objection time of the 6 months out of the 18 experimental period is also a cynical attempt to “rig” the results before the experiment is over and as such should be reviewed.
Yours Sincerely
Mike Irving
I dont know if Mike Rhodes took time to reply or it was a stock answer.