Somerset Council intend to place a temporarily closure order to restrict access to the Rights of Way T19/17/1, T31/30, T19/17 and T19/24
in the parishes of Thurlbear and Orchard Portman from the 18th March 2024 for 6 months.

The purpose of the restriction is due to danger to the public due to forestry operations. See notice below. 

PARISHES OF ORCHARD PORTMAN AND WEST HATCH Temporary Closure of Bridleway’s T19/17/1, T19/17/A, T19/20/1 and T31/30 as well as part of footpaths T19/24, T19/17 and T19/20 

 TAKE NOTICE that in pursuance of Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, as amended by the Road Traffic (Temporary Restrictions) Act 1991, the Council of Somerset has made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Bridleway T19/17/1, T19/17/A, T19/20/1 and T31/30 through Thurlbear Wood’s for a total length of approximately 1375metres as well as part of footpaths T19/24, T19/17 and T19/20 from their junction with T19/20/1 for a total length of approximately 675metres until their junction with T31/31. 

The extent of these closures is shown on the map below. 

The closures are needed for public safety due to forestry operations. 

 The Order became effective on18th March 2024 and will remain in force for six months, or until completion of the works. 

 ALTERNATIVE ROUTE 

Whilst the closure is in place alternative route will be available FOR WALKERS as seen highlighted blue on the map below. There is NO alternative route for equestrians. For information about the works being carried out please contact Mr David Lloyd at the Forestry Commission on 07500 577510