There are two options going forward. The first is for the Planning Inspector to conduct the inquiry by way of written representations together with an unaccompanied site visit. The second option is to rearrange the date of the public inquiry. We will keep you posted as to which option is chosen.
In June 2018, Surrey County Council recommended the three new rights of way but the decision was then appealed by landowners and developers. The Planning Inspector will decide whether to confirm the rights of way.
We should stress that the footpaths remain closed to the public until and unless the Inspector rules otherwise.
OLRG made the application for the rights of way in 2013 after entrances to the field were blocked off with hoardings and barbed wire by Oxted Residential Limited so that residents could no longer access the land. We collected 74 statements from residents about their long standing usage of the field and, in November 2013, submitted the rights of way application to Surrey County Council.
Very many thanks to all the residents who have given evidence and assisted with these applications and who have helped to make this happen.
