The Project
In the heart of Milnrow & Newhey's rights of way network, Carr Lane nestles as a hidden gem in the wilderness, climbing up through the hills, creating an off-road route and access to the quiet solace of moorland, fresh air and great views.
Milnrow & Newhey are neighbouring viliages in the Greater Manchester town of Rochdale which is situated at the foothills of the South Pennines. Rochdale was a major mill town in the 19th century and the centre for textile manufacture during the Industrial Revolution.
Click to view Carr Lane on Google Earth
Carr Lane is a restricted byway and an important strategic link. From Carr Lane, travellers and explorers can access the Pennine Bridleway, Rochdale Way and the Rapes Highway, a very old packhorse route from Milnrow to Marsden. It is a multi-user route serving horse-riders, mountain bikers, ramblers, walkers, runners and anyone who wants to get out into the great outdoors.
So what's the problem?
Carr Lane is in a dangerous state of disrepair. It is treacherous to use whether on foot, bike or horseback and is in urgent need of repair.
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Due to the Lane's aspect and slope and volume of natural running water running down the hillside, the repair needs to be non-eroding - a fix that is sustainable so it will safeguard the people who use it and preserve the route for future generations.
Such a fix is not cheap at estimations of £150 a metre, the 700 metre-long lane requires serious funds to make it safe and secure its future.
We are running our own fundraising events, seeking sources of funding and through crowdfunding we hope to connect with people in our community who share our vision and want to support this project.
Who Will This Impact
anyone who wants to explore the great outdoors.....
- Horse riders - as well as horse owners, there are 3 riding schools in the area who use the lane (but have experienced difficulty due to its current state). The riding schools teach children, young people and adults included those who are disabled to ride, promoting health & well-being. The Lane is part of a larger route and so serves not only horse owners in the local community but also those visiting or passing through from further afield.
Our project is well supported by all 3 riding schools and you can check them out by clicking the links below.
| Dickey Step Riding School, Rakewood | Oxhey Western Trail Rides, Denshaw | Broad Carr Farm Riding School, Milnrow |
- Mountain Bikers - the challenge of the hills and the rugged terrain attracts many off-road mountain bikers. Evans Cycles have used included Carr Lane as part of the route in their Ride It event in Rochdale for the last 8 years, attracting some 200 cyclists.
For more information, click Evans cycles Ride It Events
- Walkers / Ramblers - the views and the challenge of the hill are attractive to these seasoned pedestrians
Check out our local ramblers group Rochdale Ramblers
- The Local School - is within close proximity of the Lane and provides an excellent circular route for cross-country running and students of Duke of Edinburgh Awards
Click here to find out more about Hollingworth Academy
- Active Families and/ Dog Walkers - the Lane can be easily accessed after a short walk from Milnrow village and opens up a whole area of countryside for people to explore and exercise their favourite pooches.
A bit about us....
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We are a group of ordinary folk who have a passion for horses and love nothing better than to enjoy the countryside surrounding the villages of Milnrow & Newhey in Rochdale on the back of our trusty steads. The group reformed in June 2016 after taking over the reins from the infamous "Galloping Grannies" who started the group back in 1990s. |
Our motto is to Ride Enjoy Preserve Promote
We are working to keep our local bridleway routes open and properly maintained to give riders access to safe, off-road riding, allowing people of all ages to enjoy the great outdoors and a healthier lifestyle.
www.mnbg.co.uk