What is the dispute in Corfe Mullen, Dorset about?

The dispute in Corfe Mullen, Dorset is about the new owners of a private nature reserve blocking access to a 780ft footpath that locals have used for decades.

How are the Wilkinson family restricting access to the path?

The Wilkinson family, who inherited the land, have installed CCTV cameras, put up barbed wire and warning signs, and even escorted people off the land to prevent access to the footpath.

Home / Lifestyle / Dorset Villagers Battle Wealthy Landowner Over Blocked Nature Trail

Dorset Villagers Battle Wealthy Landowner Over Blocked Nature Trail

Q: What are the residents of Corfe Mullen doing to try to preserve the path?

The residents of Corfe Mullen have launched a campaign to secure the path as a public right of way by gathering over 100 statements as evidence of its longstanding use. They are seeking a Definitive Map Modification Order, but the process could take up to 10 years.

8 Sep

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Summary

Wealthy landowner blocks access to 780ft footpath through nature reserve
Locals used the path for decades before new owners installed CCTV and barbed wire
Residents launch campaign to secure public right of way through private land

Dorset Villagers Battle Wealthy Landowner Over Blocked Nature Trail

A heated dispute has erupted in the Dorset village of Corfe Mullen over access to a beloved nature trail. For decades, locals have used a 780ft footpath that runs through a private nature reserve known as Happy Bottom. However, the situation changed last year when the property was inherited by the family of the late landowner, Philip Wilkinson.

The new owners have taken drastic measures to restrict access, installing CCTV cameras, putting up barbed wire and warning signs, and even escorting people off the land. They claim the path is uneven and they fear being held liable if someone is injured, as well as being unable to keep livestock due to loose dogs roaming the area.

Outraged residents have launched a campaign to secure the path as a public right of way, gathering over 100 statements as evidence of its longstanding use. They are seeking a Definitive Map Modification Order, but the process could take up to 10 years due to a backlog at the local councils. In the meantime, the owners have warned of vandalism and theft, leading them to take increasingly aggressive actions to block access.

The dispute has divided the community, with some supporting the landowner's concerns, while others are determined to preserve this cherished nature trail. The outcome remains uncertain, but the battle lines have been drawn in this clash between private property rights and public access.

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