06/02/2026
Hi everyone, we have a problem and want to highlight an issue that may affect a lot of boaters as well as us....
The lane which goes over the bridge and gives access to the boatyard, the A508 and village of Yardley Gobion (lots of us use the shop and pub) is in dispute. It turns out this has been an ongoing issue for a very,very, very long time. Many of us have been happily using this lane for years.
Last August a dog killed a sheep in one of the farmers fields and since then he has decided to attempt to block access to the public footpath which starts just after the gate into his field. He has so far removed the stile, public footpath signs and replaced them with the somewhat threatening ones you see in the pic. He's also highlighted a blocked bridleway (I didn't even know was there) by putting up a sign saying private land no public right of way (both are on the OS and definitive map). Whilst this is bad enough, we are concerned this is just the start and preventing access to the whole lane could easily be the next step if we don't have a right of way confirmed.
There have been many attempts by members of the public, who use the lane, to get a DMMO (definitive map modification order) actioned but so far there has been no action taken by the county council despite many years, evidence of use etc.
So, several people have decided enough is enough and have formed an action group. Among other strategies an online petition, link as below. This gives more details.
We have also created a similarly worded paper petition at the boatyard for customers who wish to sign.
We really appreciate the support and hope it will help persuade the powers that be to get a grip and sort this out (read the petition for more details)
Thanks.
Make Wharf Lane Yardley Gobion a Right of Way
