Footpath raises privacy concerns despite railings pledge

28/09/2009

Plans to expand a stretch of riverside footpath in Marlborough, which would include the installation of new railings, have caused controversy among local residents.

A long-term plan to create paths in the area, which has recently been revived by the council, has raised concerns that the routes will take members of the public right past the doors and windows of householders, the Gazette & Herald reports.

Developers McCarthy & Stone have agreed to put up railings between the path and nearby apartments, but residents are still concerned that walkers will be able to look directly into their homes.

"I am very disappointed that despite my previous letter you are persisting with the idea to site the proposed new footpath only two metres from my stepmother’s French windows," the paper reports one letter to the local council as saying.

An article in the Telegraph and Argus recently drew homeowners' attention to the fact that insurers are recommending solid gates and railings to discourage thieves as the autumn nights begun to draw in.