CATHERINGTON residents trying to scupper a BOAT on The Creek fear they could be left high and dry by plans to ban vehicles from the track.

Old Lane, known locally as The Creek, is a popular shortcut between Southdown Road and Catherington Lane, used every day by walkers and horse riders.

But the track is a Hampshire County Council (HCC) designated BOAT – a byway open to all traffic – including 4X4 off road vehicles.

But if a Horndean Parish Council proposal to restrict its use is agreed, residents say they will be cut off from their homes.

Nigel Steward’s house overlooks Catherington Lane, but his drive leads on to the ancient track, once used by drovers to herd cattle.

He said: “We would like the BOAT designation replaced by an order restricting vehicle use to residents, farmers, and those with livestock in fields along it.

“But if there was a total ban, we wouldn’t be able to get to our homes.”

Bill Evershed, who has lived on the 160-yard long lane for about 80-years, said: “There is a growing number of enthusiasts seeking to challenge themselves by driving along the track, as they are allowed to do, and turning it into a quagmire.”

When mixed with rain, the mud, with its chalk and flints, flows on to Southdown Road, and, to a lesser extent, Catherington Lane.

Mr Steward said: “The stones can be dangerous to traffic.”

And the off roaders could be dangerous to other lane users, he added.

Horndean Parish Council has asked that the BOAT designation is reviewed, and changed to a Road Traffic Order, that could ban all vehicles from the lane.

Parish council executive officer Carla Baverstock-Jones said: “The request has gone to Hampshire.”

Hampshire County Council councillor for Catherington Marge Harvey said: “I have brought this up with the county council.

“But it will take time, I hope it will be settled by the end of the summer.

“I have had emails about drivers leaving the lane so it can’t be used by walkers, which is ridiculous.

“If an order banning vehicles is made, there should be exemptions allowing residents and farmers to continue using The Creek.”