RESIDENTS have voiced their concerns about plans to allow a lane in an historic part of Congresbury to be used as a bridleway. An inquiry into a decision to use the lane, which runs from Venus Street to Urchinwood as a Bridleway Open to All Traffic (BOAT)

RESIDENTS have voiced their concerns about plans to allow a lane in an historic part of Congresbury to be used as a bridleway.An inquiry into a decision to use the lane, which runs from Venus Street to Urchinwood as a Bridleway Open to All Traffic (BOAT), was held last week.The move to change the use of the lane prompted more than 70 objections from people living in the area who said the move could open up the lane for use by 4x4 vehicles and motorbikes.Representatives from Congresbury History Group spoke at the inquiry, stating no evidence could be found to confirm the lane had ever been used as a coaching route or for any wheeled vehicles.The society also opposed the designation of the lane as a bridleway, claiming traffic could cause damage to a Grade II listed bridge over the river.Other residents raised concerns that opening up the route could affect wildlife in the area.The inspector, Alan Beckett, is due to give his decision at a later date.