Suffolk county councillor Mick Fraser has been called on to hold an emergency public meeting after Hadleigh residents expressed concerns about the closure of a popular bridleway, which is also used as a safe route by schoolchildren.

Hadleigh town councillor Bill Wilson wrote an open letter to Cllr Fraser, who is also a Babergh member, outlining why action should be taken to keep Bridleway 27 open.

Cllr Wilson also questioned why no consultation with the residents of the Weavers Meadow estate had taken place.

In the letter Cllr Wilson said: "This Bridleway is the main route for pupils from the estate attending Hadleigh High School and residents walking into town. The alternative for the pupils will almost double the time it takes to walk to school and put them at more risk as the alternative is a much busier route."

There are also concerns the closure at the end of March would lead to an increase in carbon emissions in the town, contrary to both Suffolk County and Babergh policies and aspirations to be carbon neutral by 2030.

Cllr Wilson said: "This closure will force people into cars increasing the Town's carbon footprint and causing more congestion on Angel street, MagdalenRoad and Station Road."

He wants developers Persimmons and councillor Fraser to meet with residents to discuss the issue before the Bridleway is closed.

Cllr Fraser has been approached of comment but has so far failed to respond.

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