UNITED Utilities has confirmed that it supports the calls for the re-opening of the controversial Thirlmere Road - but has also offered up an 'alternative solution'.

Cumberland Council proposed a permanent road closure on the U7003, which runs along the western shore of Thirlmere, following severe damage caused by Storm Arwen in November 2021. 

Assessments by the landowners United Utilities (UU) have since been conducted, evaluating the full face of Rough Crag determining hazards, necessitating the continuation of the road closure.

The closure has since faced opposition. As well as an upcoming protest, an online petition garnered almost 10,000 signatures calling for the road to be reopened. 

United Utilities has now revealed that they have been identifying what needs to be done to make the rock face safe for the road to reopen. 

The company says they are now working with Natural England and the relevant authorities to gain permission for the work to be completed within the protected landscape.

This would include scaling of the rock face from above and installation of protective netting and barriers to prevent further erosion and debris from falling.

This work can only be done with permission due to the protected nature of the landscape and carried out over the winter to minimise any impact on nesting birds.

Kevin Sayers, Cumbria area manager at United Utilities, said: “We completely understand the frustration caused by the ongoing road closure and recognise there are calls for us to open the road immediately to all users. 

"We cannot, however, compromise safety of the public and we need to ensure that all relevant permissions are in place before work can begin.

“We fully support the calls for public access to the West side of the reservoir and, as public safety is of paramount importance to us, we have been working hard to find a safe solution.

“Rough Crag has important environmental protected status and stabilisation work would be likely to involve the removal of rare plants and sections of the rock face. 

"This is why we must get permission from the relevant authorities, including Natural England, the Environment Agency and the Lake District National Park Authority for the work to be completed over the coming months.

“This corner of the Lake District is a beautiful area and we want to find the best solution that balances the need for public access with the protection of its unique features," he said. 

Given the complexities, United Utilities has offered up an 'alternative' solution. 

News and Star: Proposed alternative route. Proposed alternative route. (Image: United Utilities)

"For this reason we have been working with local stakeholders on developing an alternative new lakeshore path if stabilisation of the crag is not permitted by the authorities.

“This would see the creation of a new scenic traffic-free trail for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users and horse riders along the west side of the reservoir shore which would link up to the existing highway at a safe distance from Rough Crag.

“We will, of course, continue our positive engagement with the council and other statutory authorities before any further work takes place and we are committed to find and implement a solution so that everyone can enjoy the west side of the lake," he said. 

The announcement comes at a time in which a peaceful rally is to be held on Sunday (November 5) calling for the reopening of the road. 

Those in opposition to the closure cite their arguments on the grounds of public safety, alleging it creates a bigger danger by forcing cyclists on the A591.

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Penrith & Solway, Julia Aglionby, has also voiced her support for the campaign to re-open the road.

Walkers looking to show support are encouraged to be at Armboth Car Park by 10.45am, and will march south along the U7003. 

This coincides with cyclists' meeting at Legburthwaite Car Park with a similar start time.