The Bridleway Battle: A Neighbourhood Feud in Little Berkhamsted
In the picturesque village of Little Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, a bitter dispute has erupted between neighbours over the positioning of a historic bridleway. This conflict, which has escalated into a costly legal battle, has not only strained relationships but also raised questions about property rights, community access, and the preservation of local heritage.
The Origins of the Dispute
The roots of this feud trace back to 2019 when Dr. Dawn Carnell and her husband, David Moore, allegedly removed right-of-way signs that had long marked a path through their property. This bridleway had been a cherished route for ramblers, horse riders, and local residents for over a century, allowing them to traverse the couple’s driveway and paddock. The couple’s decision to lock the gates to their property effectively barred access to this well-trodden path, igniting frustration among the community.
The Financial Toll of the Feud
As tensions mounted, two sets of neighbours found themselves compelled to take legal action, each reportedly spending around £50,000 in pursuit of easements that would restore their access to the bridleway. In stark contrast, Carnell and Moore have invested a staggering £250,000 in their legal defense, illustrating the high stakes involved in this dispute. The couple argues that the bridleway should be rerouted between two nearby cottages, a claim that Hertfordshire City Council has dismissed. One councillor even remarked that it was "inconceivable" that the couple was unaware of the bridleway’s historical significance.
Safety Concerns and Community Backlash
The legal battle has taken a toll on the couple’s sense of security. Moore has expressed concerns for his family’s safety, citing incidents of vandalism and harassment. “It’s horrific. We’ve suffered criminal damage to our property. Someone broke the sign at the bottom, the sign for our house. Someone tried to smash the gates in,” he lamented. The couple’s daughter has reportedly moved out due to feeling unsafe after being followed to a petrol station.
On the other side of the dispute, Sue Williams and her husband Wayne Morris have emerged as vocal opponents of Carnell and Moore’s actions. Williams, a former criminal justice officer with the Metropolitan Police, has described the situation as frustrating and costly. “My integrity is very high. I was in the Met for 40 years,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to the community and the importance of preserving the bridleway.
Historical Context and Legal Implications
The bridleway in question has a complex history. Definitive maps created in 1924 clearly indicate the path running through Carnell and Moore’s property. However, a subsequent redrawing in 1957 mistakenly repositioned the route between two nearby cottages. This historical oversight has become a focal point in the legal arguments, with the couple claiming they were unaware of the bridleway’s existence when they purchased their home in 2015.
As the case progresses, the couple plans to take their fight to a planning inspector, indicating that the legal fees may continue to escalate. A spokesperson for the council has stated that it would be inappropriate to comment further until the case is resolved.
The Community’s Reaction
The ongoing feud has not only divided the immediate neighbours but has also sparked discussions within the wider community about the importance of public rights of way and the responsibilities of property owners. Many residents are concerned about the implications of this case for future access to local paths and the preservation of the village’s rural character.
Conclusion
The bridleway dispute in Little Berkhamsted serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities that can arise from property ownership and community rights. As both sides prepare for the next phase of this legal battle, the outcome remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the fight over this historic path has transformed from a simple disagreement into a costly and contentious saga, with deep implications for the community and its cherished traditions.