I am writing in response to the Go Ape project in Rivington. As the chairperson of Bolton Bridleways Association, I am greatly concerned about the impact the scheme will have on the West Pennine Bridleway Strategy plan, as the route that is proposed through Rivington will be virtually unusable to horse riders if the venture goes ahead.

This will impact greatly on the bridleway and could well affect the success of the whole plan.

The bridleway plan was to create a circular, mainly off-road route for riders, walkers and cyclists, using “quiet roads” where necessary.

By allowing Go Ape in this site, riders will be forced on to the road between the Lower Barn and Rivington School, which is a busy stretch with no pavement and one that will become even worse, as Go Ape users add to the weekend traffic chaos in Rivington.

As the bridleway strategy was developed in partnership with seven councils(including Chorley) and United Utilities, I cannot believe that this has not been considered.

Accidents will increase, with horses being scared on the busy road and by the aerial runways of Go Ape.

A warning to all the riders who sit back and do nothing to oppose the scheme — make sure you are well insured before riding in Rivington once Go Ape opens.

K Morrissy, Bolton Bridleways Association