STATEMENT BY BOARD OF TRUSTEES - 25 APRIL 2026 

​

The Board would like to thank the Paths’ Group, (which was set up by the Board and which reports directly to the Board), for their unstinting work in bringing this proposal to the attention of the Board.  The work of the Paths’ Group over the years has helped the Board to fulfil some of the charitable functions of MCA, namely, to advance public participation in sport, to provide recreational facilities and to foster and promote citizenship and community development.  All the members are volunteers and devote their time and energy to the benefit of the community.

​

The Board first made public mention of the possibility of this path at the AGM, once it had determined that the land held by the K&LTR would be available for purchase - mid December 2025.  It would have made no sense to announce the proposal until this crucial fact was established.  The Board immediately approached one of the key known landowners but have  found them unwilling to enter into any meaningful dialogue.  The Board provided information on the Madderty website and responded to comments, objections and support.  On 11 April an Exhibition and Discussion Forum was held in conjunction with our annual Bacon Butty Breakfast in an effort to generate an exchange of views in a social setting. The Board has also provided a confidential email address to facilitate the registering of views.  A comments box was available on 11 April 2026. 

​

There can be no proper debate without differing opinions and the Board would like to thank all  who made polite, constructive and considered comments to the Pow Railway Path Proposal. Unfortunately, some objectors resorted to comment and behaviour that was rude, aggressive and, at times intimidating - which was disrespectful to the community that they purported still to support.  

​

In terms of the MCA constitution [Art 6:10] the Board can only purchase property after the matter has been put to a vote by Special Resolution; and, in terms of Art 6:10:2, where there is a two-thirds majority in favour (by those casting their vote).  The Board has received 39 objections to the proposals and 15 expressions of support.  While the Board notes the strength of opinion against the proposal, it is conscious that the aggression and intimidation it has witnessed may have affected the willingness of some to voice support at this stage. Had this been the only factor in the decision, the Board would have invoked the procedures required in terms of Article 6 to progress to a Special Resolution and community vote.

​

However, two strong arguments have persuaded the Board to refrain from pursuing the matter in terms of the above provisions.

 

1. The board considered the proposal may adversely impact the livelihood of some members of our community. 

2. The Board does not consider it in the community’s interest to become involved in a situation whereby becoming a landowner might require litigation to enforce a right  either now or in the future.  This would not be in accordance with the spirit of MCA or to the benefit of the community at large, nor an appropriate use of Hall funds.  In addition, the present Board does not consider that it would be appropriate to impose the responsibility of administering any such action on successive Boards.
    

The Board has concluded that this proposal should not proceed.  This is the unanimous decision of the Board.

​

Mrs Betty Bott -  Chair of the Board of Trustees - Madderty Community Association