»Dog walkers, people on their way to work and others rushing to catch the morning train will have an easier job of it now an Aldborough Hatch bridleway has been restored.
The footpath, bridleway 93, had become waterlogged and pothole-ridden during the winter between St Peter’s Church in Aldborough Hatch and Oaks Lane, Newbury Park.
It is regularly used by people on their way to Barkingside but could only be tackled by donning wellington boots and braving the mud and water, according to Ron Jeffries, chairman of residents’ group Aldborough Hatch Defence Association.
Mr Jeffries, 79, of Spearpoint Gardens, Aldborough Hatch, said: “There were huge potholes.”
He called on Redbridge Council to repair the works, but was originally told a tenant farmer in Aldborough Hatch Farm was responsible for its upkeep.
However, Mr Jeffries said the council did then agree to repair the damaged section, which runs for about 500 yards, and works took place earlier this month. He said: “There was a lot of rutted Tarmac on to Oaks Lane.
“They refilled a lot of the pot holes.
“They’ve done a reasonably good job.
“If it’s necessary for gravel to be put down and rolled, I will make sure they do it.”
The keen walker has since spoken with fellow travellers along the pathway and has been told by many that it is “so much better”.
The total length of the track runs from St Peter’s Church, through Aldborough Hatch Farm, on to Fairlop Waters and ends at Barkingside Tube station in Station Road, Barkingside.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here