Annotated map reproduced courtesy of Googlemaps.
At the time of the BHS 2021 Access Survey (16 Oct 21), there were no gates or other obstructions across the path and it had purple restricted byway waymark arrows at each end.
1. Waymark post on Watford Rural 17
Photo: Phil Wadey, 16 Oct 2021
2. View from Watford Rural 17
Photo: Phil Wadey, 16 Oct 2021
3. View northwards
Photo: Phil Wadey, 16 Oct 2021
4. Approaching Watford Rural 6
Photo: Phil Wadey, 16 Oct 2021
7. View south from Watford Rural 6
Photo: Phil Wadey, 16 Oct 2021
On 15 Feb 08, a route in Watford Rural parish, running parallel to the railway line, was added
to the definitive map as a Restricted Byway. This means it carries a right of way for walkers, riders, cyclists and horse drawn vehicles. However, narrow link paths mean that it is unlikely that a cart would be able to use it as a through route.
The route has been recorded following an application by the British Horse Society's Hertsmere Access Officer on 21 Sep 98 for it to be shown as a bridleway on the definitive map of rights of way. The County Council determined the application in June 2006 and decided that there was not enough evidence to justify the making of an order. The applicant appealed to the Secretary of State who directed the Council to make the order at restricted byway status. This change came about because much of the user evidence related to cycle use, and a change in the law in 2006 meant that this contributed to restricted byway status instead of bridleway or full byway. There was one representation, which was subsequently withdrawn, and so the order was confirmed as unopposed.
The Patchetts Green Bridleways Trust (and, before 2003, the Patchetts Green Riding Club) supported the BHS in its application. There was also strong support from the Bushey and District Footpaths Association.
The Patchetts Green Bridleways Trust and the BHS believe that there are several as yet unrecorded bridleways and restricted byways in Watford Rural parish, and encourages riders in this area to get in touch.
