Residents in Frensham have raised concerns after contractors working for Waverley Borough Council left a popular bridleway in a muddy mess.

Heavy machinery used on Bridleway 40, combined with poor weather conditions, has turned the thoroughfare into a quagmire, with deep trenches filled with mud and water.

One resident told the Herald: “Speaking plainly, the size of the tractor used has caused the damage.

“The same damage is apparent on Frensham common too. The tractor used was very large and very heavy. I think this is unacceptable in such a sensitive environment.”

He said Bridleway 40 is a key north-south route in the village for cyclists and horse riders.

“It is unacceptable that it is now unsafe to use,” he added.

Cyclist struggling to get through Bridleway 40
A cyclist struggling to get along Bridleway 40 in Frensham. (Submitted photo)

A bridleway is a legally protected route where the public has the right to walk, ride horses, and cycle—although cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders.

However, this particular path is also one of the only access routes for machinery needed to carry out maintenance work in the nearby reserve.

Frustrated residents say WBC contractors have left Bridleway 40 in a dangerous state.

They argue this is especially concerning given that Waverley Borough Council is responsible for maintaining The Flashes nature reserve, which is part of the Frensham Common heathland.

A spokesperson for Waverley Borough Council said: “A small section of bridleway 40 was rutted by contractors while they were undertaking essential firebreak cutting and management works on site. Our rangers work to ensure the highest level of wildfire protection for the rare habitats and the wildlife that calls the heathland their home, as well as protection for residents’ properties and the visiting public.

“Our area’s heathland has a history of summer fires, and we take our responsibilities for the protection of these vitally important habitats - and our visiting public - very seriously.

“Improvement works were already planned to take place on the nearby permissive bridleway and are due to be completed very soon. We are also co-ordinating with Surrey County Council so that several of the wetter sections of BW40 can be resurfaced whilst the contractor is on site.

“Once all the works are completed, we hope there will be a noticeable improvement for residents who use and enjoy the site.”