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Archive => Archived Boards => Local Issues => Topic started by: CTCREP on August 04, 2011, 09:09:54 AM

Title: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on August 04, 2011, 09:09:54 AM
Having pestered anyone I came across in Officialdom during the last ten years or more to have a signboard erected at the Rosehill entrance to the Middlewood Way, and being repeatedly told there is no money available for a notice board, Stockport has finally found the money to put one up during this era of major cut-backs.  What is needed for people coming from elsewhere to use the Middlewood Way is to be told there are cafes etc just up the road, and that there are interesting places to visit such as Roman Lakes, Etherow Country Park and the Canal System etc. So what has Stockport MBC done, put in another of their expensive self advertisements which exhort you to behave properly, and if you want to know anything there is a telephone number you can use, but of course not after working hours or at the weekend. IN reality totally useless. No doubt they can tick yet another box so they can claim to be a well run Council, but when will they do anything for the residents and businesses that pay their wages, and how can our local Councillors let them waste money in this way? Only today I met a chap from Bollington doing the same as practically everyone else does that comes from that direction, he took one look at the Council Refuse tip and was about to turn back. I chatted with him for a while mentioning Etherow Country Park and the Aqueduct and he said that he would certainly bring his wife to see them. If we really want to see Marple thrive, e.g. the cafes not closing down every so often etc, then we must get a grip on those in Authority and get them to cater for Marple and not just their own self publicity.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: chicken lady on August 04, 2011, 09:48:21 AM
I agree about the useless signage. I walk my dog down the Middlewood Way most mornings, last week I met a cyclist from Marple Bridge who has recently moved into the area,  trying to find a way to the A6 avoiding Dan Bank. He had been told about the Middlewood Way but had no idea where it went, I was able to advise, and also told him about the picnic area etc at Lower Poynton ( I assume it's still there, I've not been for years!) as he was keen to cycle with his children.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on November 26, 2011, 03:12:09 PM
Having just walked round to see how the Connect2 project was progressing I came across the usual NIMBY poster in the Turnpike area which I guess was trying to scare local residents. For those who may be thinking of being taken in by this selfish and totally unrealistic attitude - for example, I don’t see hundreds of complaints about motor cycles on the Middlewood Way - be aware that in areas with more enlightened Councils that have created good quality cycle paths the value of the adjacent houses has risen as people become aware of the benefits.

If this is the same person who is persuading the Council not to provide visitor notice boards at the Rosehill end of the Middlewood Way that would benefit the local cafes and other businesses and you know who it is, perhaps you could persuade them to think of catering for Marple rather than their own interests.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Victor M on November 27, 2011, 09:05:26 AM
What is required is a notice board like the ones Cheshire East have put up on the canal tow path at Disley. They are a reasonable size, two sided with a map showing local amenities with advertising around the periphery for local shops, pubs cafes etc. They look really good and probably the advertising pays for the boards.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on December 24, 2011, 12:12:46 PM
Apparently one or two NIMBYs tried to brow beat the Local Area Committee into stopping the provision of a Safe Route to School and a Safe and Pleasant Route into Stockport for those willing to cycle there by opposing the creation of the Connect2 route from Marple to Stockport. This route has been approved and partly funded by SUSTRANS a Nationwide organisation well aware of the benefits of such routes and through their work can claim, for example, to have benefited the North East by some 13 million pounds. A well designed route between Stockport and Macclesfield would bring noticeable benefit to Marple not only by enabling residents to access the countryside but also through additional visitors bringing income to Marple through its cafes etc. If you have an interest in seeing Marple flourish rather than turn into a ghost town as some places have become then please support the Connect2 project.  If you would like to know more why you should support this project please see a Presentation we gave to Stockport Council and other user groups when we were asked to show the problems our particular groups had and how they could be dealt with. The presentation is on the Cycle Stockport web site.  www.cyclestockport.org.uk (http://www.cyclestockport.org.uk)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on December 31, 2011, 09:50:08 AM
Following the pre Christmas scare when here was an attack on the Connect 2 scheme I am happy to report that the Council and in particular Marple Area Committee are fully supportive of the project. An earlier communication stated that the bridge should be in place in time for the Chadkirk Festival. So let us have a Happy New Year and look forward to enjoying a circular walk down to the Festival and back along the canal.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Miss Marple on December 31, 2011, 11:15:25 AM
I have no views whatsoever on this project but I have to say that I walk my dog around the ruins and down to Otterspool twice daily.  It has always been a quiet walk with the odd cyclist and horse rider passing by but on two occasions now I have been confronted with 3 off road motor bikers riding at speed.  The first time this happened I was taken totally by surprise and just managed to get over to the side, but my dog was on the other side of the path on an extending lead.  Luckily for the  bikers and My dog he remained there whilst they passed riding over his lead.
So all I am posting for is to say that the people living next to the site may well not be NIMBYs, they may well see this type of thing happening.  Let's hope the off road bikers will respect everyone who uses the track and do not claim it for themselves.  
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Dave on December 31, 2011, 12:01:20 PM
I don't think they should be allowed to claim it for themselves.  Off road motor bikers on bridleways and footpaths are breaking the law.  I don't know this particular route, or what its legal status is as a highway, but the off-roaders are certainly a problem on bridleways around the Roman Lakes.  They are noisy, polluting, and they often turn up in groups and drive too fast, frightening dogs and horses.  If you can read their number plates through the mud   ::) they should be reported to the police.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lisa Oldham on January 01, 2012, 01:07:41 PM
the off roaders will go where they like! whether we build a lovely new path or not! .. as for checking their plates...they rarely have them! They bring them in the vans and ride from there. Lots of issues at brabyns with them too... reported to the police but there is little they can do as by the time they have the time to get there theyve gone!

I'll get my dog out of the way of them.. but I stand my ground...I want to see them swerve and fall off :D
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: chicken lady on January 02, 2012, 12:30:57 PM
I thought that the path down to Otterspool was closed to the public, but went to check this morning with the dog - what was a beautiful walk has, in my humble opinion, been ruined. lovely old trees have been cut down, brambles have been cleared (will have to find another spot for blackberrying!), and the pleasant meandering path has been levelled and widened. It looks dreadful. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt until I see the end result, but I really can't believe that this is progress.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lisa Oldham on January 03, 2012, 09:25:29 AM
And meanwhile the place that really needs some serious money and effort put into it.. the path at the bottom of the dale by the river and the road up to Dale road is still unpassable by bikes , wheel chairs and even those blooming off roaders!  Walking is fairly hazardous too!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: sooty2 on January 03, 2012, 10:06:33 AM
I thought that the path down to Otterspool was closed to the public, but went to check this morning with the dog - what was a beautiful walk has, in my humble opinion, been ruined. lovely old trees have been cut down, brambles have been cleared (will have to find another spot for blackberrying!), and the pleasant meandering path has been levelled and widened. It looks dreadful. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt until I see the end result, but I really can't believe that this is progress.
Yes,this is another example of ruination of natural beauty.Dan Bank,Seventeen panes of glass,We should rename Marple Chainsawville :'(
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on January 03, 2012, 02:56:33 PM
I tried (and failed) coming back up the path from Otterspool a few weeks ago and was taken aback by just how heavy the construction was. However, we are seeing it in winter and a particularly wet one at that. Come Summer and given a few years, it should be pleasant again.

The new connection simply between Marple to Romiley will be the best thing to come out of this. The roads via Compstall or Otterspool are long diversions and hostile for walkers and cyclists, and while the canal is pleasant, it can feel a little too narrow in places for cycling and often gets muddy (though the local British Waterways office have told me they will look into improving the Rose Hill Tunnel stretch this year).
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on February 16, 2012, 11:39:14 AM
I have just been for a mooch down the back of Marple Hall to see how the new path is progressing.  At the risk of incurring the wrath of the 'tree lovers' - it's looking good.  As you walk along the top it's obvious that a lot of trees have had to be removed or severely cut back but you can now see down to the river and into the valley. 

Although the path is not yet finished it was walkable on - with permission from the workmen there. They have been busy putting in a decent fence and planting young trees (including beech). No doubt the brambles will recover - just look, for example, how often things have to be cut back along the Middlewood Way.

The new path, when finished, will mean that people with pushchairs or wheelchairs will have access to Otterspool and Chadkirk (once the new bridge has been built) without having to walk down the awful stretch of footpath from the bottom of Dan Bank as far as the Hare and Hounds.

I, for one, welcome the progress that has been made to open up the area for all users (but let's hope, not off road motorbikes).
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Miss Marple on February 18, 2012, 05:52:34 PM
Oh my god !  What have they done !   What used to be a place that you could be in touch with nature, walking down through the old Marple Hall gate down to the river, has now been all fenced off.   It is so clinical with an imposing fence preventing you from walking  the old routes down the valley.  We have horses so whilst I am all in favour of a bridle way and a safe family cycle track no thought at all has been given to dog walkers like myself who used to enjoy climbing down the embankment on to the old walkways of Marple Hall which led to the river.  
It was the most wonderful sight ever in winter to see the fallow dear which were recognisable with their frozen breath giving there location away, sadly there is no way down as not only have they fenced off a public right of way they have destroyed a most wonderful natural walk and replaced it with a clinical environment .  Can anyone enlighten me as when the community had a say in this project  I may have missed the consultation period ?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on March 06, 2012, 04:49:07 PM
Hello Miss Marple. Yes you must have missed the consultation. There was a major exhibition in Marple Library several years ago when residents were given the opportunity to discuss the route and also vote on the style of bridge to be built over the River Goyt. There have also been several minor exhibits at the Chadkirk Festivals since then. It just seems a long time since the project was first considered. Now we have to move on.

I have just read an enormous amount of correspondence concerning the coming Local Elections. In it were calls for greater help for businesses, and questions on how do you determine which candidate to support.

This thread was started because of Stockport MBC’s reluctance to cater for Marple, its businesses and also its visitors. Visitors require useful information about the area, its attractions and how to get there in the form of Information boards at various locations particularly at the Marple end of the Middlewood Way at Rosehill. Stockport MBC's excuse is always that there is no money available and yet Stockport MBC finds enough money for Corporate Notice Boards in all the Parks which have negligible benefit to visitors or the community.

It would be interesting to some if our local candidates, who must read this Web Site as they have an interest in Marple, were to state here what they will do to ensure visitors will have clear and informative Notice Boards that will encourage them to visit more often, and in doing so benefit some of the businesses in the area.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on March 06, 2012, 08:40:15 PM
I've been for a walk this afternoon to see whether work has started on the Connect2 Bridge across the River Goyt.  There were several workmen and a digger on the Chadkirk side of the river and a notice board on the Marple side of the Goyt giving some info about the bridge.  The starting date was yesterday (5th March) and is expected to take 14 weeks.
What also surprised me is that the road down Marple Dale has been tidied up.  The holes have been filled in and overgrown shrubs cut back - which has made a few more passing places for this busy little lane which goes down to the Canoe Club and the little community beyond.
The downside was the stretch of footpath from the end of the lane to where the new bridge will cross the river - which was as muddy as ever.
I then investigated the newly laid path which follows the Goyt towards the bottom of the wood behind Marple Hall.  This is also looking good but as the workmen were busy working at the stream (bridge not reinstated yet) I had to turn round and walk back up the Dale (passing the 'Curly Wurly Tree' twice in one day).
I'm really looking forward to the completion of the works as it will give me a choice of  several circular walking routes without having to go near the main road.  It will also make access (by bicycle)  between Marple, Chadkirk, Romiley, Bredbury and beyond much easier.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on March 06, 2012, 11:22:56 PM
The downside was the stretch of footpath from the end of the lane to where the new bridge will cross the river - which was as muddy as ever.

Lily - I raised this issue a few days ago and got a helpful and prompt reply (see below). I am keen to see some improvements made to the footpath, but I appears that nothing will be done until this section is turned into a bridleway. Shame really, since there is an ongoing dispute and I also question whether there is still funding for this. I don't see anything being done this year! My email was sent to Ernest Nama (Stockport Council) and Councillor Craig Wright. I received similar responses from both parties.

My email: I have a suggestion to make that I’d like you to consider. A great deal of money is being spent on the bridleway and the new bridge. As a result of this, I foresee more people making use of the footpath between the weir and Marple Dale lower farm. Unfortunately, whilst most of this section remains easily navigable all year round, there is a stretch near the farm that is either (a) often incredibly boggy, or (b) overrun with balsam. To coincide with the new bridleway, would you consider making some footpath improvements to alleviate these problems?  Please can you let me know your views on this matter.

Craig Wright's reply: Thank you for your email. It was always the intention to bring the bridleway down the Marple Dale route that you are talking about. Unfortunately negotiations with the landowners involved have dragged on and we had to get a route from Middlewood Way to the site of the bridge started by Dec last year, 2011, otherwise we would have lost the Big Lottery money being held by Sustrans who are overseeing the whole national Connect2 project. That's why we switched to the Marple Hall route which is now well advanced.
 
Work on the abuttments for the bridge has started and the bridge should be in place by end July.  It is still our intention to upgrade the Marple Dale route and discussions with the landowners continue. Getting rid of Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam would be a part of that, as would the provision of an all-weather surface along the whole route. We'll all just have to be patient for a little longer. When it is finally done we shall have a superb set of walking/cycling/horse-riding options from Marple going in all directions.
 
My colleague, Martin Candler and I walked the Marple Hall route on Tuesday. It is due to be finished by the end of March and will be a fine addition to our network of  footpaths, cycleways and bridleways. It opens up new vistas down by the river Goyt.
 
As soon as we get the clearance to start work on the Marple Dale route that you mention we will widely publicise that news. Regards, Craig Wright


Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on March 06, 2012, 11:27:38 PM
Bridleway along River Goyt -

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Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lisa Oldham on March 08, 2012, 05:15:16 PM
Regarding the filling in of the holes in the road, and the cutting back of hedgerows and trees, down from Dale Road to Lower Dale Farm.  This is done by the owners of the equestrian centre on Lower dale farm who do it on a regular basis, its nothing to do with the council or the project.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on March 08, 2012, 09:14:03 PM
Regarding the filling in of the holes in the road, and the cutting back of hedgerows and trees, down from Dale Road to Lower Dale Farm.  This is done by the owners of the equestrian centre on Lower dale farm who do it on a regular basis, its nothing to do with the council or the project.

Are you sure about this Lisa? I thought the upkeep of the road was shared between the various owners of the properties at both Upper and Lower Dale Farms?

Nothing to do with the land owners, but I was very disappointed to see the dumping of rubber backed carpets the other day.

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Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on March 08, 2012, 09:31:02 PM
I, too, saw the dumped carpets the other day - and I must say I was disgusted rather than disappointed.  Someone has gone to the trouble of driving down the lane to dump their old carpets rather than going the very short distance in the other direction to the Rose Hill Tip. Whoever it is should be ashamed of themselves. 
Perhaps someone will know who the culprits are and report them to the relevant authorities.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on March 26, 2012, 04:13:02 PM
I just seen a new direction post in Brabyns Park pointing to Marple Station and Brabyns Brow. Having always been told by Stockport MBC they have no money for such things is this a promise of things to come, let’s hope not. Fine having one to the station but why Brabyns Brow? What visitor is likely to want to go there?  Why not a sign to Marple Bridge Shops instead of Brabyns Brow, and why aren’t there two more direction signs one to Marple and the Peak Forest Canal, and the other to Etherow Country Park? Once again Stockport MBC has shown its lack of interest in catering for Marple and its visitors. For example, soon it will be Dog Show time when there could be up to 500 people in the Park, yet not all of them are interested in the show itself and would welcome the opportunity to see what is in the area. They would probably spend money in the pubs and cafes etc yet Stockport MBC suggests they visit Brabyns Brow and even the Station where they could then leave Marple. When is this Council going to spend our money wisely?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: minx on March 27, 2012, 07:50:49 PM
Hope that the route will have dog waste bins as I notice the poo is already piling up.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on March 30, 2012, 05:45:11 PM
Just for interest, I found the following on the Sustrans Web Site (They are responsible for Connect 2)

In 2010, Sustrans’ new route and iconic bridge linked central Worcester to the nearby countryside. This opened the area up for tourists and locals, and boosted the local economy. At the Diglis House Hotel, business hours have increased due to increased custom and they are seeking permission for a new riverside bar. Manager Steve is now working with local groups to run guided walks and rides by the river.

This is no time to simply say "I rest my case" It is time for Stockport MBC and Marple in particular to get on board the Connect 2 project and aim to do the same here.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: My login is Henrietta on March 31, 2012, 03:34:58 AM
The new bridleway/footpath/cycle track which has been opened near the equestrian centre at Charlesworth as part of the Trans-Pennine Trail has been given self-closing gates to prevent motor bikes, etc., using the route.

The only problem is that the gates are not very rider friendly - they are on a strong spring and it takes two people to negociate them or your horse gets whopped on the behind by the gate swinging to.

Incidently, in reply to an earlier question, bridleways are open to walkers as well as horses so walkers are not so badly done to as the poster suggested. (Which, of course, begs the question that if walkers have the right to use bridleways, why don't horses have the right to use footpaths?)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on April 20, 2012, 01:10:48 AM
Here are some photos of the new path taken this week, if anyone's wondering how it's getting on...

New gates towards Otterspool where the path splits in two. The gate on the right is just big enough for a bike.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7131/7094794151_7eacca1283_z.jpg)

Looking down towards the river. The hill is quite steep on a bike, I'm not sure it'll be suitable for everyone. Dale Road will still be the ideal link for cyclists if it ever happens...

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/7094796311_06fcb1b863_z.jpg)

Back towards Marple Hall.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/7094798881_df138c84e7_z.jpg)

A lot of clearance and heavy construction. It's quite spectacular looking down to the river now, but it will look better when things begin to grow back in.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5038/6948733458_303b5cc1d0_z.jpg)

Down at the bottom, a new bridge is just waiting for its railings to be bolted in.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7116/6948735734_b45eeae853_z.jpg)

Looking back up towards Marple.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/7094807059_53034baef1_z.jpg)

All in all a great improvement in terms of accessibility so far, and exciting to see construction finally beginning on the bridge itself in the distance. I almost thought that was some kind of Goyt mirage after all these years waiting...
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on April 20, 2012, 01:41:49 PM
Down at the bottom, a new bridge is just waiting for its railings to be bolted in.

To let you know, the railings are waiting to be RE-bolted in!! The bridge, including railings, WAS completed and open for traffic. The ~3 inch concrete 'top layer' that included metal rods has had to be dug up and re-applied. The contractor I spoke to was brassed off because he says had completed the work to the 'plan' he was given. He said he had not been given an 'engineering drawing'. He new concrete layer is the same thickness, but the metal reinforcing rods are now closer to the edge.

The old concrete (pictured) has now been removed from the site.
 

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Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on April 20, 2012, 05:08:16 PM
To let you know, the railings are waiting to be RE-bolted in!! The bridge, including railings, WAS completed and open for traffic.
Thanks for the info. Thought it was strange they still had to fit the railings with the rest of the path pretty much complete.

Hopefully they've still some work to do up at the top when the construction compound goes, to join it onto Hilltop Dr/Marple Hall Dr properly?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: ringi on April 23, 2012, 05:12:21 PM
I hope that a lot of the local school children that travel from Romiley will start cycling or walking to school.   However it is a shame that a cycle path is not being built though the school field as the children will have to go round 2 sites of the school field.

Are enough good quality covered cycle racks being installed at the school and will the school be activity promoting cycling once the bridge is opened?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Duke Fame on April 23, 2012, 10:50:26 PM
I hope that a lot of the local school children that travel from Romiley will start cycling or walking to school.   However it is a shame that a cycle path is not being built though the school field as the children will have to go round 2 sites of the school field.

Are enough good quality covered cycle racks being installed at the school and will the school be activity promoting cycling once the bridge is opened?


How do the kids get to school now?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on April 24, 2012, 07:30:07 PM
There’s not much left of the old Marple Hall site. One remaining feature is a section of the old cobbled road. To my surprise, there was a digger today removing one side of the edging cobbles. The workmen explained they had been instructed to remove both edges so new raised wooden edging could be inserted as per the bridleway already completed round the school. The middle section of cobbles was then going to be buried under the new surface. However, their work had been halted by a councillor coming down and asking them to stop since the site was of historical significance. Their brief is now to put back the cobbles and leave the path as it is. However, as you can see from the photos, what they are putting back does not match the pattern of the original edging, but blends in with the middle section.

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Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Miss Marple on April 24, 2012, 08:13:36 PM
It's disgusting what has been allowed to happen to Marple Hall site ! Shame on the planners for allowing such carnage.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Belly on April 24, 2012, 10:24:25 PM
It's disgusting what has been allowed to happen to Marple Hall site ! Shame on the planners for allowing such carnage.

Surely shame on the people of Marple and Stockport for looting the site and trashing it all those years ago. There's nothing left of any consequence to save.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Miss Marple on April 24, 2012, 11:37:39 PM
Well I have a cannon ball which I found on the site about 5 years ago !  It was verified with the help of Steve Cliffe from The Heritage  Magazine who sent it off to Leeds for verification and dating !  All I need now is a cannon  :D
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Duke Fame on April 24, 2012, 11:46:50 PM
Well I have a cannon ball which I found on the site about 5 years ago !  It was verified with the help of Steve Cliffe from The Heritage  Magazine who sent it off to Leeds for verification and dating !  All I need now is a cannon  :D

Does anyone know anyone who would vandalise and steal from the site, name and shame:

Miss M
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Miss Marple on April 25, 2012, 12:18:31 AM
No !  It's here being looked after until the owner calls and collects it  ;).   Seriously though if we had somewhere like a Marple heritage centre or the like  I would give it them.  There must be lots of Marple folk with bits of Marple Hall in their homes !  Whatever happened to the door from Marple Hall that was in the Bowling Green pub,  hopefully that wasn't thrown away ?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: admin on April 25, 2012, 08:45:29 PM
There’s not much left of the old Marple Hall site. One remaining feature is a section of the old cobbled road. To my surprise, there was a digger today removing one side of the edging cobbles. The workmen explained they had been instructed to remove both edges so new raised wooden edging could be inserted as per the bridleway already completed round the school. The middle section of cobbles was then going to be buried under the new surface. However, their work had been halted by a councillor coming down and asking them to stop since the site was of historical significance. Their brief is now to put back the cobbles and leave the path as it is. However, as you can see from the photos, what they are putting back does not match the pattern of the original edging, but blends in with the middle section.
Well done to that Councillor!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on May 03, 2012, 12:13:11 AM
A bit of tree damage to report from the other day - see pics! Two trees on the river bank and one at the top of the bridleway ....



[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on May 06, 2012, 09:19:37 AM
Re Heritage Centre. Several years ago I was a member of the Etherow Goyt Partnership - a group set up by the Mersey Basin Campaign that itself had been set up by the Government to clean up the rivers in the area. Once done they then realised they needed to encourage people to make use of the rivers - hence the partnership. At the time I proposed a route from the end of the Middlewood Way down to Etherow Country Park which of course went close to the confluence of the Rivers Etherow and Goyt. During that period we did get the improved path through Brabyns Park from the canal down to the sports pavilion in the park but never got any further in getting it signposted. Hopefully now with Connect 2 Stockport MBC will take an active part in promoting Marple. Also at this time British Waterways offered the small building on the corner by top lock as a Visitor Centre. Unfortunately this wasn't taken up, but perhaps the Civic Society has it in mind.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on May 19, 2012, 11:04:37 AM
We have been told that sections for the Bridge at Chadkirk should arrive about June 8th and be put in place about June 10th to 12th. We were also told this information would be on the Stockport Web Site but I have been unable to find it, anyone able to do so please publish on this web site as it could be quite a spectacular operation getting the bridge into place.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on June 06, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Council site now gives the following dates:

Friday 8th June 2012 - Delivery of bridge sections prior to final assembly on site.

Thursday 14th June 2012 - Installation of bridge over River Goyt (Lifting of the bridge into place is expected to commence early afternoon).


Hopefully the weather will be better by then!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on June 06, 2012, 08:02:14 PM
At long last. This is inded good news and will be a major benefit to the area.

I understand it wil ltake several days to actually get the bridge in place
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on June 12, 2012, 05:45:04 PM
The Chadkirk mirage...!

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7212/7180550953_437861851e_c_d.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7180550953/in/set-72157630112703474)

Arrived today. Date for the lifting has now moved (http://www.stockport.gov.uk/services/transport/gettingaround/connect2) to next Wednesday, 20th June.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on June 12, 2012, 06:28:21 PM
I've uploaded a few more photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/sets/72157630112703474/

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/7365880870_d477bdb543_c_d.jpg)

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/7180653101_b8051ddfb2_c_d.jpg)

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7365881988_bc8e49ed5e_c_d.jpg)

It looks very smart indeed, good colour and a nice curvature. Looks like they're working on the middle section with the "passing points" now.

There's also another new path on that side of the river, allowing pedestrians to keep out of the narrow road towards the chapel. Better for dog walkers I imagine.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7180657535_8b8df0757a_c_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on June 21, 2012, 02:50:38 PM
The bridge is now in place across the river but work on its foundations and access paths means it will probably not be open for use until the end of July.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/80878200@N02/7413949628/in/photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80878200@N02/7413949628/in/photostream)

(link fixed, Howard)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on June 21, 2012, 02:59:02 PM
As a CTC member when did I elect you to be my rep??
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on June 23, 2012, 10:01:22 PM
More here -

http://friendsofchadkirk.wordpress.com/2012/06/20/chadkirk-bridge/ (http://friendsofchadkirk.wordpress.com/2012/06/20/chadkirk-bridge/)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on June 26, 2012, 02:12:11 PM
Hello Wheels

Your question about my being your representative is answered this way. The Cyclists' Touring Club (membership 70,000) has a nationwide group  of volunteers dedicated to trying to improve cycling conditions in their area. They are known as the CTC's Right to Ride Representatives. I am one but we need more. Too many cyclists, quite understandably, are unwilling to waste their time trying to improve conditions for themselves and others as they know few authorities are willing to take cyclists seriously. You have to be willing to bang your head against the wall almost indefinitely, but sometimes cracks appear and Connect2 is one of them. Hopefully this is the start of improved conditions. Now we need more cyclists and others to persuade Stockport MBC to complete the job and link Chadkirk with Stockport Town Centre and the Trans Pennine Trail.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on June 26, 2012, 07:15:00 PM
I hope it's planned to join the pathway onto Marple Hall Drive properly here (http://goo.gl/maps/6ZUJ) and replace those rusty old railings at the top of the cobbles (especially after the bizarrely OTT pavement widening at Rose Hill). It's a good thing the cobbles were "saved", but they are horrible to cycle over. Couldn't they have just built a new path next to them rather than on top of them?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on July 02, 2012, 10:51:06 PM
Anyone interested in seeing some of the action on the day the bridge was lifted into position may like to view this short video.
See link in later post.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 02, 2012, 11:10:08 PM
Good quality video and very intersting to see . TY
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on July 02, 2012, 11:12:15 PM
Just watched the short video - it was excellent.

Can't wait for the bridge to be opened.

Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on July 06, 2012, 02:34:12 PM
Stockport MBC is saying the Bridge will be Officially Opened on the 29th July during the Chadkirk festival. They have more details here:- http://www.stockport.gov.uk/services/transport/gettingaround/connect2
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 06, 2012, 02:39:45 PM
Good News indeed a real cycling gain
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on July 10, 2012, 05:39:41 PM
I have created a better upload of the video of the installation of the bridge over the River Goyt at Chadkirk. It can be seen here.

https://vimeo.com/45511660

I trust Admin will remove the original link. Let's hope the weather improves for Chadkirk Festival and the Official Opening of the Bridge on the 29th July, and if Stockport MBC have a display then please thank them but also persuade them to continue the route in a similar style through to Stockport and the Trans Pennine trail.

Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: bluebelly on July 11, 2012, 07:46:37 AM
are you allowed to walk on it ?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 11, 2012, 08:00:42 AM
Iain Roberts is to open it I understand
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on July 11, 2012, 09:00:47 AM
Yes, Bluebelly, once completed you will be able to walk across the bridge. I don't know whether you can actually get across it yet as the last time I was down there (about a week ago) there was no access to the bridge.

It's a foot/cycle/bridle path and quite wide so plenty of room for all users.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: the rover on July 11, 2012, 09:20:19 AM
How long will it be before motorbikes start using it, can they access it?
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on July 11, 2012, 04:12:01 PM
How long will it be before motorbikes start using it, can they access it?

Not unless the anti-motorcycle barriers on the footpaths either side don't work!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on July 20, 2012, 02:41:12 PM
As previously mentioned on this forum, the Chadkirk bridge over the river Goyt will open on Sunday 29th July.

I can confirm the time will be 11:30 am, with the Chadkirk Festival commencing at 12 noon.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: nedsram on July 22, 2012, 11:02:33 AM
There is some hope. Stockport MBC joined forces with Sustrans to create a Connect2 route from Rosehill down Dale Rd crossing the River Goyt with a new bridge near Chadkirk and continuing right into Stockport. We can only hope Sustrans will be able to achieve something that years of requests have failed to do.
There is as yet no progress on the link from Rose Hill via Dale Road to the new bridge at Chadkirk (which is near the old weir). However the link from Marple Hall High School is now almost complete, and the formal opening of the Chadkirk bridge will take place next Sunday.

As for you comment on signage, I did bump into two cyclists working for SMBC who were looking at suitable places where signage could be put in place. However it was clear that my local knowledge was far superior to theirs, as they were asking me where the next river crossing point upstream was, and I had to advise them on the best way to get to Rose Hill from the new Chadkirk bridge.

You can get more information on this here (http://www.stockport.gov.uk/services/transport/gettingaround/connect2?view=Standard).
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on July 25, 2012, 08:21:40 PM
I walked over the bridge this evening along with several others coming from both sides of the river. All barriers are now removed. Finishing touches being applied (wooden fencing / landscaping) ready for the official opening this Sunday.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 27, 2012, 12:15:10 AM
I am told Alan Newton will be opening the bridge on Sunday. A good choice I say.

Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Lily on July 27, 2012, 08:58:27 AM
Hi Wheels,

Can you explain to the 'unenlightened' who Alan Newton is, and what he has achieved.

I know Alan but most people in the area won't have a clue about him.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: Tricky on July 27, 2012, 09:07:36 AM
From SMBC website..

Alan Newton, who won a bronze medal for Great Britain at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki, will open the new Chadkirk Bridge in Romiley, Stockport, on Sunday 29th July at 11.30am.

Alan, aged 81, who lives in nearby Offerton, also finished 4th in the individual pursuit in the 1952 cycling world championships.

Chadkirk Bridge is a multi-use bridge over the River Goyt linking Marple, Bredbury Green and Romiley, and linking to local and national trails.

It is part of a national project from charity Sustrans to build new walking and cycling routes linking up communities across the UK. Designed for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders the bridge will improve community links within Stockport, National Cycle Network connections with the Middlewood Way from Marple to Macclesfield, and the Trans Pennine Trail, a national multi-user trail between the Irish and North Seas.

Following the opening, the 16th annual Chadkirk Festival starts in the adjacent Chadkirk Country Estate. The Stockport Council-organised event has something for everyone including a puppet show, willow weaving, traditional Romanian dancing, birds of prey, fencing and martial arts displays, hand ring bells, brass band, and many craft and information stalls.

Councillor Iain Roberts, Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “It’s great to be able to give more people the opportunity to walk or cycle in Stockport. Chadkirk Bridge will provide a pleasant and safe off-road route for everyone, from cyclists, horse riders and walkers to commuters and schoolchildren.”

Councillor Craig Wright, Chair of the Stockport Connect2 steering group, added: “I was delighted that the scheme attracted the support of the public in a national vote. This new river crossing will be a vital and well-used link between local communities in the east of the borough.”

Sustrans’ Regional Director for North West, Peter Foster said: “Walking and cycling for everyday journeys is great for our health, the environment and it’s fun too. These new links are going to make a real difference to how people make their everyday journeys in and around Marple, especially in getting to the magnificent Chadkirk Festival. We hope to work with Stockport Council in the future to deliver even more routes like this locally, making it safer to get around on two wheels.”
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marplerambler on July 27, 2012, 04:34:50 PM
I attended the Area Committee Meeting of the Ramblers’ Association Manchester Area last month and informed them of the forthcoming opening of the new bridge. I believe that the new route will be beneficial to both cyclists and walkers. To the best of my knowledge no further approach to Stockport Council has been made by any representative of Manchester Area Ramblers Association or Stockport Group Ramblers’ Association. The link from Dale Road to the new footbridge is not a cycle route, it is a link for pedestrians only: cyclists and horseriders who use this route without right of access in their property deeds or the express permission of the landowner commit an act of trespass and can be prosecuted  by the landowner. Damper sections of the footpath along Marple Dale have been torn to shreds by cyclists using this route illegally. Hopefully the specially constructed link to the new bridge from Marple Hall School will lead to a considerable reduction in cycles on the footpath along Marple Dale. I believe that the wisest course of action for the Ramblers’ Association is to see how effective the new A-frame stiles (narrow at top to block cycle handlebars but broad at the bottom allowing push chairs and wheelchair users) are in preventing illegal usage of Marple Dale by cyclists who choose to ignore the specially constructed bike route. The legal status of the route from Marple Hall School to the new bridge has been changed to bridleway to create a new much needed cycle route taking the cyclist off Dan Bank and creating a link which is hoped will precede renovation of the bridleway along the Goyt Valley to Lower Bredbury and on to Stockport.
As for the comments about cyclists working for SMBC, there is only one Cycling Officer and he has been involved in all aspects of the Chadkirk Bridge project since its inception and the other cyclist was probably the Public Rights of Way Officer. Between them they know more about the public rights of way in the area and the bridge project than anyone else in Stockport so heaven knows who you bumped into.
PS. Before you ask the question ‘Why were Council staff on a footpath on their bikes when everyone else is excluded?’ the answer is that the Highways Act 1980 section 300 ‘Right of local authorities to use vehicles and appliances on footpaths and bridleways’ gives local authority employees working on footpaths a right of access by vehicle or by bicycle. Why? Because it saves the local ratepayer cash! Inspection work can be carried out more quickly if the car or van is left near Marple Hall School and the inspection can be carried out more quickly by bike than it would be on foot.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: nedsram on July 27, 2012, 06:12:17 PM
The link via Dale Road and the Goyt is on the Sustrans map (http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map?searchKey=marple&searchType=search&Search=Find) as a proposed route for National Cycle Route 55. So yes, for the time being it is not a right of way for cyclists.

Also the Chadkirk bridge officially opens at 12 this Sunday.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: nedsram on July 29, 2012, 08:54:56 PM
A short YouTube video of the opening ceremony is available here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou1YEWE3Vmg&feature=g-upl
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: admin on July 29, 2012, 10:12:59 PM
Arthur Procter's photos of the Chadkirk Bridge opening ceremony are now on-line:

http://visitmarple.co.uk/photos/thumbnails.php?album=128
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 29, 2012, 10:57:53 PM
Excellent photos,wish I could take photos of that quality, it was a good turnout.

Good to see cyclists from city centre Manchester who had cycled over for the event.

Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on July 30, 2012, 11:26:06 PM
Further photos of the new bridge and bridleway can be found here:

www.flickr.com/photos/ants/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/)

or you can start here and navigate through the snaps:

www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7678196124/in/photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7678196124/in/photostream)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on July 31, 2012, 09:11:39 AM
Unfortunately I was unable to attend the opening of the bridge ceremony, although my wife was there.  It has been great to see the videos and photos of the event and the number of people there. It was also pleasing to see the signposts in place. Now it is time for Marple residents and others to persuade the Council to bring the next section of the route from Otterspool Bridge to Bredbury Hall up to a usable standard for those wishing to use it for commuting into Stockport, and of course bringing more Stockport residents into Marple to benefit the local businesses.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: wheels on July 31, 2012, 11:52:12 AM
Unfortunately I was unable to attend the opening of the bridge ceremony, although my wife was there.  It has been great to see the videos and photos of the event and the number of people there. It was also pleasing to see the signposts in place. Now it is time for Marple residents and others to persuade the Council to bring the next section of the route from Otterspool Bridge to Bredbury Hall up to a usable standard for those wishing to use it for commuting into Stockport, and of course bringing more Stockport residents into Marple to benefit the local businesses.

I agree the bridge really only works if you can then cycle down into Stockport. I see a campaign developing to get the route from Otterspool Bridge up to standard.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: rsh on July 31, 2012, 05:43:22 PM
Further photos of the new bridge and bridleway can be found here:

www.flickr.com/photos/ants/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/)

or you can start here and navigate through the snaps:

www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7678196124/in/photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7678196124/in/photostream)

If you start here you should see the photos in the correct order (I took a full series of snaps all the way along): http://www.flickr.com/photos/ants/7685117952/in/set-72157630112703474

I'm particularly impressed with the abundance of new signage (even at long last on Middlewood Way!), and the finish of the bridge and pathway is really impressive. As well as being very useful and eventually opening up new routes it will hopefully become quite an attraction in itself.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on August 01, 2012, 09:52:14 AM
Re additional signage this is of course very necessary and very welcome, however what are also required are Information Boards showing visitors what is available in the area and why they should go there.  We are of course still waiting for Stockport to put up such an information board at Rosehill to show where you can go from there. For example there is a sign pointing to Chadkirk Chapel but unless you knew there was a pleasant garden there and the possibility of a cup of tea there is little incentive to visit the chapel. Having met someone on the Malvern Hills on a motorised wheel chair I would hope one or two of our more intrepid disabled users would check out the possibility of now being able to visit the chapel by themselves.

Still on the subject of Information Boards you may like to take a look at one by the Otterspool Car Park. The one I refer to replaces one that showed you how to get to Oldham that I complained about several years ago. It's replacement now shows you how to get to Bredbury and Romiley by car. Surely anyone arriving at Otterspool by car would probably have a road map of their own and would want to know where they can walk to. Admittedly there is another board that shows how to walk round the nearby field but the majority of people are more adventurous than that and would welcome being shown how to get to Marple or Etherow Country Park. We need to pester Stockport MBC to create more useful information boards that could bring more visitors to the area that would support our local businesses.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: jimblob on August 01, 2012, 09:57:53 AM
Useful signs would certainly be money better spent than one the current "Don't become a statistic" and "Young Drivers think!" signs on Stockport Road.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on September 04, 2012, 05:19:44 PM
Stockport is proposing to put a "Portrait Bench" by Chadkirk Bridge. You are invited to vote for whose portraits are to be displayed. See       http://www.stockport.gov.uk/services/transport/gettingaround/connect2
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: CTCREP on October 21, 2012, 01:57:23 AM
This strand started off with a plea for useful Information Boards to enable visitors to enjoy the delights of Marple and the surrounding areas and in doing so benefit local businesses such as cafes and pubs. After continually saying there is no money available Stockport MBC now have some through their Transportation Capital Program. It is essential this money is spent wisely and not on, for example, self advertising Corporate Notice Boards as have appeared in all our Parks during this period. The few Information boards around are far from satisfactory, one at Otterspool tells you more about how to get to the Motorway than that the attractive Chadkirk Chapel is nearby, and the one in the Memorial Park, although it mentions  Chadkirk and Etherow Country Park, it gives you no incentive to want to go there. If we are to help our neighbourhood by promoting local services such as cafes etc then it is necessary for local people to explain to Stockport Council how this money should be spent. For example it is proposed that  Information Boards should have canopies. Great, but if there is then insufficient money for an additional board or signage of routes between locations then I suggest we do away with the canopies. There are other areas where money is proposed to be wasted, for example providing leaflets which only benefit those who have them and which have a very limited life before they are put in the dustbin. Boards that show where cafes,  pubs and other relevant facilities are available and with well signed routes on how to find them would benefit everybody for years to come. Although these points have been made to Stockport's Cycling Officer at their Cycle User Group meeting, if any of you can influence this Council and our Councillors not to be profligate with what little money they have available please do so now. The programme can be seen at their Potential Cycle Projects for the Transportation Capital Programme  PDF 27 KB 

http://democracy.stockport.gov.uk/documents/s22255/report.pdf (http://democracy.stockport.gov.uk/documents/s22255/report.pdf)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marplerambler on October 23, 2012, 10:15:40 PM
I am surprised that no-one else has noticed that the signs indicating distances have been placed incorrectly. The sign at Rose Hill gives the distance to Macclesfield as 9m whereas the sign at Wood Lane gives the distance to Macclesfield as 10m. They are the wrong way around!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: the rover on October 24, 2012, 09:34:58 AM
I am surprised that no-one else has noticed that the signs indicating distances have been placed incorrectly. The sign at Rose Hill gives the distance to Macclesfield as 9m whereas the sign at Wood Lane gives the distance to Macclesfield as 10m. They are the wrong way around!

Having walked from Marple to Macc along Middlewood Way a few years ago on a very wet and windy winters day it seemed about 30 miles to me when I finally arrived in Macc. Came back on a nice warm bus!
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: the rover on October 24, 2012, 09:42:12 AM
Can someone please advise me on something? Is it possible to walk from Dale Road across the bridge to Chadkirk pushing a baby's trolley?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: admin on October 24, 2012, 10:00:05 AM
Can someone please advise me on something? Is it possible to walk from Dale Road across the bridge to Chadkirk pushing a baby's trolley?

Thanks.

You will struggle with a trolley in the muddy pathway along Marple Dale - there are some places where it would be very difficult. You could go via the new paths from the site of Marple Hall though. The modifications have made this ideal for pushchairs and bikes etc. and you could go all the way to Chadkirk Chapel via the new bridge.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: the rover on October 24, 2012, 10:04:24 AM
Thanks Mark.
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: marveld on April 06, 2013, 10:12:36 PM
"As part of the scheme a Portrait Bench will be installed which will include metal cut outs of three people selected following a vote that was carried out at the Chadkirk Festival in July and also on-line via the website. The three people chosen are:

St Chad - A prominent 7th century church man and Bishop of Lichfield but important locally as the founder of Chadkirk Chapel.

Douglas Tattersall - Former Clerk to Bredbury and Romiley Urban District Council who arranged the purchase of Chadkirk Estate and Etherow Country Park for the people of Stockport before it was disbanded in 1974.

John Bradshaw - First President of the Council of England and number two to Oliver Cromwell. He had long standing ties with the area and who's descendants lived at Marple Hall."

photos can be found here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401649/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401649/)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401793/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401793/)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401551/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401551/)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401427/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/allengleave/8621401427/)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: simonesaffron on April 06, 2013, 11:28:05 PM
Saint Chad and Mr Tattersall are fine but isn't John Bradshaw controversial to say the least.

He does have ..."long standing ties with the area",  this is true but isn't this the same John Bradshaw who was the senior Judge at the trial of King, Charles Stuart 1. Wasn't he the first signature on the then Kings Death warrant and after the Restoration wasn't his corpse exhumed, hung, drawn and quarterd whilst he was denounced as a traitor by the government of the day ?

Is this an appropriate figure for a portrait bench outside a chapel ?     
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: admin on April 07, 2013, 06:56:41 AM
Personally I think John Bradshawe is more than appropriate - he is Marple's most famous (or infamous) son - however, that cut-out looks like a Cavalier. Bradshawe was a Roundhead, second only in power to Oliver Cromwell. Whoever decided to create that image to represent him should have consulted the Local History Society over the design.

I had a look at the cut-outs the other day and wondered who they were meant to depict - I wouldn't have guessed Bradshawe as the Cavalier in a hundred years! I thought it must represent the Cavalier who, legend has it, was drowned at the ford at that very location on his way from Marple Hall.

Anyway, to read more about John Bradshawe visit the main site: http://www.marple-uk.com/JBrad1.htm
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: simonesaffron on April 07, 2013, 08:43:40 AM
This is the Marple website and not the history channel but only in his dreams and possibly yours Admin was Bradshawe ever second to Oliver Cromwell.

At the time of Charles Stuart's trial he was a competent but comparitively minor judge who was manouvered by his elders and betters into being the President of the court that he became. After the trial he was "looked after" for a short period of time and given land and money. Then he suffered a series of demotions by Cromwell, became little more than a bit player and was marginalised to the shires where he died in almost ignominy of malaria.

There is also some more to him that is not commonly known and was quite distasteful and not for a family website as you say somebody should have consulted the local history society.

His claim to fame or infamy as you say is as a plain and simple regicide. That you say he is being portrayed as a Cavalier is little short of being hilarious. Anyway when all is said and done it is only a park bench but I doubt that it will do much to attract the Royal Family to Marple - although some may think, that's a good thing.       
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: admin on April 08, 2013, 07:20:34 AM
Arthur was inspired to go down to Chadkirk Bridge and take a photo yesterday and it's the best shot I've seen so far, using the sky as a plain background to make the cut-outs jump out.

I'm afraid John Bradshawe still looks like a Cavalier to me but in my dreams the one in the middle is Eric Morecambe!

(http://visitmarple.co.uk/photos/albums/userpics/10002/The37413_024.JPG)
Title: Re: Catering for Marple/Connect2
Post by: jethroh65 on April 08, 2013, 07:44:29 AM
Arthur was inspired to go down to Chadkirk Bridge and take a photo yesterday and it's the best shot I've seen so far, using the sky as a plain background to make the cut-outs jump out.

I'm afraid John Bradshawe still looks like a Cavalier to me but in my dreams the one in the middle is Eric Morecambe!

(http://visitmarple.co.uk/photos/albums/userpics/10002/The37413_024.JPG)
Yip, it is definitely Eric Morecambe in the middle. Just need to have speaker playing bring me sunshine and job done!!