Cllr Roger Upton, Conservative County Councillor for Radcliffe on Trent, has issued a strong demand for Nottinghamshire County Council to “finally take action” over the prolonged closure of a key section of the Radcliffe on Trent to Cotgrave Greenway – a much-loved route used by walkers, cyclists, families and horse riders from across the area.
Speaking during Full Council, Cllr Upton reminded colleagues that the greenway was created in April 2019 along the former mineral line at a cost of £250,000. Since opening, it has become one of the most valued recreational assets in the region, linking directly to the Grantham Canal, National Cycle Network Route 15 and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s Skylarks Nature Reserve, while providing safe access to bridleways and rural paths. “It has been enormously popular with residents and visitors alike,” he said. “This route is used every single day by people of all ages.”
However, in January 2024 a section of the track between Holme Lane in Radcliffe and Stragglethorpe Road was abruptly closed after the embankment became unstable due to unauthorised damage behind the Cedar Lodge travellers’ site near the A52. Despite officers indicating that a range of repair options would be considered and that a decision would be made early this year, no plan, no timeline and no commitment has yet been presented. The closed section has now been inaccessible for nearly two years.
Cllr Upton expressed deep frustration at the lack of progress, noting that both he and the local MP have repeatedly raised the issue. “The continuing uncertainty about the future of this section is totally unacceptable,” he said. “Residents deserve clear answers. Walkers, cyclists and horse riders deserve a safe, continuous route. We were told a decision was coming months ago – yet here we are, with silence. Enough is enough.”
He added that leaving such a significant public asset in limbo undermines the original investment and the value it brings to local communities. “We invested a quarter of a million pounds in this greenway just five years ago. It has delivered huge benefits for health, leisure and sustainable travel. Allowing it to remain closed indefinitely is simply not good enough.”
Cllr Upton concluded with a direct challenge to the authority: “When will Nottinghamshire County Council make a decision? The people of Radcliffe, Holme Pierrepont, Cotgrave and beyond cannot be kept waiting any longer. It’s time to act and get this vital route safely reopened.”
