Residents protest to remove neighbour's security gate

Neighbours have been protesting for the removal of a homeowner's security gates blocking an entrance to Cwmparc forest

Residents have taken to protest after a new homeowner put up gates blocking the entrance to a forestry.

A petition calling for public access of Cwmparc Forest in Treorchy, Rhondda Cynon Taf has reached over 3,000 signatures within a week, with many community members voicing their concerns during a "peaceful" protest on Sunday.

But the homeowner of the property said the family were left with "no choice" after experiencing "dangerous driving, dog fouling, people urinating, aggression, theft, drugs and air rifles".

Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) council said it was reviewing all evidence, as while the land is privately owned, this "does not prelude the existence of highway rights".

About 70 people gathered outside the home amid an amber rain warning on 23 February, holding a banner reading: "No to the gate. Our mountains are there for all to enjoy."

Campaigners entered Cwmparc forest using an alternative route accessible from Tylacoch near Treorchy Comprehensive school, but said it was a one to two mile detour of "rough terrain".

Petition founder Richard Clarke, 57, from Treorchy, asked the property's interactive doorbell to open the gates, so they did not have to go back across the mountain.

"Conditions have deteriorated somewhat since we set off. We are in an almost emergency situation here... We would appreciate any cooperation you would kindly give us by opening your gates."

In response, the homeowner told them it was a private property and asked them to "please leave" to which they did, according to Mr Clarke.

The forest is managed by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), which confirmed it owned a private right of way over the land - but said it does not extend to public access.

Protest organiser Richard Clarke said up to 100 people gathered to voice their concerns on Sunday

The gate, which was put up last week, sparked campaigners to make "no to the gate" stickers and posters, which many small businesses have placed in shop windows to show their solidarity.

However the family of the gated property, who moved to Cwmparc about a year ago, said their private entrance had been abused in a way which they felt they had to consult with authorities and advisors over what could be done.

The homeowners said their main concern was keeping their family safe, in what they described as a very difficult situation.

In a statement, they said: "We are currently working hard to find an alternative solution. There is an existing path to one side of our property which would provide an alternative route.

"Work on clearing the path has already started but we ask for the community's patience and understanding as the progress is weather dependant."

David Thomas says the path has been used for 100 years and a small access gate would have been "better for everyone"

Mr Clarke said he does not wish the family ill, but does not agree that people were now blocked from visiting the mountain.

As part of a local walkers group, he said the path had been used for decades for cyclists, dog walkers and nature lovers.

He said blocking the park was a threat to the community's mental health, as getting outdoors in the peace and quiet does wonders for people's wellbeing.

"This phenomena threatens to cage our cherished countryside and the happiness we found in it," said Mr Clarke.

Despite an amber rain warning, community members walked across the mountainside to the gate

Mr Clarke said some people have put momentos of their loved ones in the forest, which they no longer had easy access to.

"There are scattered ashes of loved ones up there, which they cannot visit in the same way they used to," he said.

"To say we use this access point often would be an understatement" says campaigner John Warren

RCT council said it was actively engaging with local elected members and the community regarding the matter.

In a statement, a spokesperson said: "While the land in question is privately owned, this does not necessarily preclude the existence of highway rights.

"The council will carefully review all available evidence and, where appropriate, take the necessary enforcement action to protect public access."

NRW acknowledged the community concerns and "strength of feeling" surrounding the issue but said its private right of way only applies to tenants, assigns, and licensees - not to the public.

In a statement, a spokesperson said there was no legal dispute between them and the landowner, as NRW has been provided access to the gate.

"While we understand the frustration this may cause for residents, we are not in a legal position to alter the current situation."

Petition founder Richard Clarke described the situation as "phenomena"

While the road is not a right of way for the public, Mr Clarke said residents were hoping to be granted prescriptive right of way.

He remains determined for the gate's removal, with more walks planned in the near future.

"Let our future generations continue to enjoy the beauty and freedom to roam our remarkable Welsh countryside, just as we have," he said.

The homeowners thanked those who had "shown kindness and understanding", adding that it had motivated them to "keep faith" in the community and "help find an alternative solution which meets the needs of everyone concerned".