A proposal to restrict motor vehicle access on a popular rural route near West Bridgford has been given the green light by Nottinghamshire County Council, following months of public consultation and a single formal objection.
Holme Lane connects Adbolton Lane and Sandy Lane to the west and leads to Radcliffe-on-Trent to the east.
The decision applies to Holme Lane, a Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT) situated in Holme Pierrepont, connecting Sandy Lane and The Toll House. The route, while legally accessible to vehicles, is primarily a recreational path used by pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.
The council’s move to implement the Prohibition of Driving Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is seen as a necessary step to address safety risks and preserve the character of the lane.
The report published by Nottinghamshire County Council says that Holme Lane has increasingly become a ‘rat run’ for motorists seeking an alternative to the A52 between Radcliffe-on-Trent and Lady Bay. The surge in traffic has led to significant deterioration of the unbound stone surface, forming potholes that reappear despite regular maintenance—particularly during wet weather.
The authority notes that BOATs like Holme Lane are not designed to handle regular vehicle use, as their purpose aligns more closely with footpaths and bridleways. To upgrade the surface for heavy motor traffic would not only alter its character but also increase the volume and speed of vehicles, creating further safety concerns – the report states.
The route is part of National Cycle Route 15 and is heavily used by non-motorised users accessing nearby recreational areas such as Holme Pierrepont Country Park and Cotgrave Country Park. With increasing footfall from cyclists, walkers, and horse riders, concerns over safety have grown, prompting calls to protect these vulnerable users.
Under the new TRO, Holme Lane will be closed to all motor vehicles except for cycles and authorised maintenance traffic. The closure will be enforced with timber gates featuring a 1.5-metre gap for pedestrian, equestrian, and cycling access. Advanced warning signs will be placed at both ends to notify motorists of the restriction.
Access keys for the gates will be provided to emergency services, Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC), Via East Midlands, the Parish Council, and the local landowner responsible for maintaining the adjacent hedgerows.
Once the road closure is in place, the council has committed to repairing the BOAT’s surface for the benefit of pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, there are plans to address deterioration on the nearby tarmacked section between Blotts Country Club and Sandy Lane once motorised traffic has been reduced.
The council’s proposal was subjected to multiple rounds of consultation, with efforts made to address residents’ concerns regarding access. Initial objections were focused on potential disruptions to local access and clarity around signage and maintenance responsibilities.
During the final statutory consultation, held between 31st July and 28th August 2024, the council received nine responses—eight in support and one objection. The lone objection highlighted concerns over signage, access arrangements, and potential damage to the gates.
In response, the council provided reassurances that signage would clearly mark the closure, and maintenance responsibilities, including any required repairs to the gates, would rest with NCC. Access for emergency vehicles and key local stakeholders would remain unaffected.
Councillor Roger Upton, who represents Radcliffe-on-Trent, expressed support for the restriction, describing it as a “balanced and proportionate measure to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all highway users.”
The works to install the gates and repair the road surface will be funded by the council’s Traffic Management Revenue budget, with an estimated cost of £5,000. Once complete, the restriction will be monitored to ensure its effectiveness, with ongoing maintenance overseen by NCC and local stakeholders.
