Next stop for former railway line

The future of a six-mile stretch of disused railway in Upper Wensleydale is to be discussed by Members of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.

A report on a possible ‘Hawes-Garsdale Multi-User Route’ will recommend Members support the principle of creating a bridleway – which would be suitable for horse riders, cyclists, walkers and those with limited mobility – along the scenic former railway line.

The report, to be made public on Monday in advance of the National Park Authority meeting on Tuesday 29 March, also recommends carrying out a survey to determine the level of public support for the proposal. 

The railway closed in 1959 and there is currently no public access along it between Hawes and Garsdale.  

The current Yorkshire Dales National Park Local Plan supports the reinstatement of a railway along the route, as well as a parallel recreational path. However, a feasibility study carried out on behalf of the National Park Authority and Richmondshire District Council has concluded there is room only for a railway or multi-user route, not both.

The National Park Authority’s Member Champion for Recreation Management Nick Cotton said: “Through the National Park Management Plan we have a shared commitment with local councils and other local groups to create another family-friendly cycling route in the National Park. This has a number of advantages, but the main one for me is to allow children and their families to get off a busy road and cycle in a safe and secure environment.

“The former branch line between Garsdale Station and Hawes Station, which is now the Dales Countryside Museum, has been one of the suggestions where such a route might be developed. The next steps are for the Authority to discuss the matter and, if it is supportive of progressing it, to seek the views of the public.”