A cyclist has complained to the Canal & River Trust over a locked gate blocking a towpath on the Huddersfield Broad Canal near Cooper Bridge.
Steve Shaw welcomed the newly-improved canal towpath between Aspley and Cooper Bridge but says the locked gate near what is a former lock-keeper’s cottage off Leeds Road is spoiling people’s enjoyment.
Steve, of Roberttown, said: “Last year local media published a story about the towpath on Huddersfield Broad Canal from Aspley to Cooper Bridge being resurfaced in order to improve access for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.
“This resurfacing was competed in December, admirable job they did, smooth tarmac all the way.
“But there was an access problem at Cooper Bridge, with a locked gate between Leeds Road and the canal.
“I took photos of this locked gate and contacted the Canal & River Trust, sending photos. I was informed that they intended to erect a sign to confirm that access was permissible to the towpath.
“This was in December last year and, three months later, nothing has changed with a locked gate obstructing access for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users to this wonderful resource.”
A spokesperson for the Canal & River Trust said: “We are frustrated that access to the canal is being prevented.
“Our charity works hard to make the canals as accessible as possible, including the recent towpath upgrade on the Huddersfield Broad Canal.
“While cyclists and other towpath users can use an alternative route under the bridge, this is clearly less than ideal.
“We are taking advice from our legal team about further action to put in place a long-term solution to ensure public access onto the canal.”
