Can i just ask what is currently unsafe about monks walk if they intend on "making it safe" how can a public foot path be unsafe ?
I think there's been a level of misunderstanding here around this.
Monk's Walk runs alongside the park, from (what was) Loggers Leap, past Burger King, to the back end of Nemesis Inferno and Rumba Rapids. Despite the adjacent parts of the park being monitored by CCTV, and security doing checks, it is still a well known spot for people to attempt to sneak in to the park. The fence isn't all that high and it's not the most difficult thing to jump if you want to. Some locals have also mentioned in the past that they've had wheelie bins stolen which have ended up down Monk's Walk, likely so people can use them as a stepping stone to get over the fence.
The concerns with the pathway are:
1. It is close to the park, and any construction and noise from rides can spoil what is a nice walkway for locals.
2. It is potentially dangerous; if people jump the fence and end up in a ride area, there's a whole world of trouble.
3. There will be increased interest from enthusiasts, which could lead to potential damage as people try to clamber for that exclusive shot.
The fence between the path and park is not unsafe in any way. But they've acknowledged those concerns and will review ways on how to ensure moving forward it remains safe and deters people from attempting to enter whilst not being an eyesore. Also, it will not encourage enthusiasts to attempt anything dangerous and silly, so have a level of being able to see what's going on.
From what I remember, there is an agreed upon height for the fencing along that path, and the park aren't allowed to exceed that with any of their own adjacent fencing within the park. That's the reason why they haven't just built a 15ft high barrier all the way down to stop people climbing over, for example.
Personally, I think this is another reason why we were never going to get an out and back style coaster along that part of the park. From a H&S perspective, I can imagine it being a massive headache building a ride area next to a public pathway known for people jumping into the park from there.
Tl;Dr- Monk's Walk and the fencing is safe. The park are considering how to ensure it remains safe, deters people from entering the park whilst keeping it looking pleasant.
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