A popular woodland route for dog walkers in Shanklin has been closed off to the public by a landowner.
County Hall’s Public Rights of Way team has confirmed the permissive paths at Holme Copse, Shanklin, have been closed.
Permissive paths are those which a landowner has granted permission for public use.
The area is owned by Anne Springman, former high sheriff and owner of Shanklin Chine.
An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said:
“Permissive paths are not the responsibility of the Isle of Wight Council.
“They are ‘permissive’ paths previously provided by the landowner who has recently decided that they no longer wish them to be available for public use.
“Being ‘permissive’ the landowner is quite within their rights to do this. The ending of the permissive arrangement does not affect the actual public rights of way SS9 and SS10 which cross/join the permissive path at the southern end.”
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The permissive paths were provided as part of an obligation under a Forestry Commission woodland grant scheme which required a 10-year period of public access starting from the date of grant payment, according to the council.
This 10-year commitment has now expired.
Ms Springman has been approached for comment.
