One year after the Ross Gazette reported about the emergency road closure at Ashes Lane, Symonds Yat, the work needed on this small road known as a Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT) has been repaired.

Barry Harlow and Tracy Carter wrote to their MP, as well as their local Herefordshire Councillor, in a bid to resolve the situation. They spoke to the Ross Gazette as they were concerned that no-one realised how difficult the closure made their lives.

Earlier this month a team from Balfour Beatty and Tarmac spent the day completely relaying the surface of the BOAT as it climbs up from the B4164 to Ashes Lane.

Mr Harlow told the Ross Gazette:?“The results are fantastic and we cannot thank the road crews enough for their expertise and professionalism. I counted at least 12 men and seven vehicles at one point and had it not been for the Wye Knott Inn pub I’ve no idea what they would have used as their operating base.”

He added:?“The work has certainly made our lives, and those of our neighbours, a lot easier and it feels like a great weight has been lifted off of our shoulders.

“All we need now is for anyone who uses the BOAT to respect the private properties around it and drive carefully so that we can keep this surface and the driveways that come down onto it in conditions that are safe to use.”

Mr Harlow told the Ross Gazette that before they bought the house they were advised by their solicitor that Ashes Lane is a Byway which has to be maintained. The couple were amazed that local residents have been using this road safely for many years but it was suddenly decided that it was unsafe to use.

Last year when the BOAT was closed Balfour Beatty Living Places and Herefordshire Council told the Ross Gazette:?“Following concerns from local residents, and after inspection, Ashes Lane has been temporarily closed on safety grounds.

“As work to Ashes Lane has not been previously identified within the current budgeted programme, the various options need to be considered. Following discussions with key stakeholders Balfour Beatty Living Places will make a recommendation as to the best way forward as soon as possible which will be agreed with Herefordshire Council.”

The couple are delighted that the work has been completed and have heard from neighbours who are also delighted that the road is open again.