In response to recent news on Happy Valley:
Unfortunately after Storm Doris hit in early 2017, Happy Valley suffered severe water erosion and damage to its unpaved surface. On the 24th February 2017 The Green Lane Association informed its members that a decision had been made and steps taken to restrict access to this ancient right of way. Deemed dangerous for vehicular users, the police temporarily closed the route pending discussions and maintenance work, this closure is still in place.
Within minutes of the announcement members of GLASS were publicly offering their time, energy and tools to help make Happy Valley accessible again. There was an outpouring of public support on social media from 4x4 drivers and GLASS representatives began, with the help of Snowdonia National Park and local authorities, a detailed assessment of the extent of the damage. Discussions began on measures that could be put in place to ensure that vehicular users would again be able to use the route safely and with respect for their surroundings.
One year later and Happy Valley remains under a temporary restriction order but, both behind the scenes and on the lane, much work and discussion has taken place regarding its future. GLASS has been heavily involved in this work, liaising with local authorities, providing volunteers and funds to help repair damage, informing their members and the public of current restrictions and continuing to promote safer driving in the countryside. The organization also has a long term plan to allocate funding for further maintenance work, signage and other measures to ensure that Happy Valley lives up to its name once again.
One of the main challenges faced by GLASS and the authorities they work alongside, are the motorists who do not have the same respect for the countryside that GLASS and the majority of 4x4 users promote. While Happy Valley has been driven in genuine error while under restriction, in a few cases it has been driven purposefully or without any effort to discover its current designation. Just like on any road, there will be drivers who flout both the law and general respect for other road users, it is neither a new problem or an easy one to solve. What is essential and guaranteed is the work GLASS does with agencies who can help prevent and prosecute the minority who act in a way that not only disrespects other users but the British countryside as a whole.
GLASS provide their members with access to TrailWise, an online database of green lanes around the UK, and ask their members to log usage, problems or maintenance issues, as well as advertising current designations and restrictions. This information is used to keep both local authorities and government bodies up to date with relevant and current information regarding Happy Valley and the hundreds of miles of unpaved ancient public highways around the UK. Without this information many of our ancient byways would have already been lost to time.
The future of Happy Valley looks promising, GLASS has pledged its support and funds to reinstating this byway to its former glory, as have many of its members and supporters, all of whom have the blessing of local authorities to do so. It is clear that our rural history as a nation is important to many sections of our society and it is through continuing to work together, despite our differences, that we can continue to preserve and maintain our heritage for generations to come.
