A ROAD in the Lake District, which reopened in May after being closed for nearly three years, has been forced to close again.

The closure has been put in place on Thirlmere's West Road again due to rockfall caused by the recent Storm Ashley.

Cumberland Council, in collaboration with United Utilities, has implemented an emergency road closure between Launchy Gill and Rough Crag as of October 21.

The road will remain closed until further notice.

A spokesperson from United Utilities said: "During Storm Ashley, a number of rocks have been blown onto the West Road.

"Our teams are working with the council to remove them as quickly as they can and ensure the road is safe to reopen again.”

In 2021, after damage from Storm Arwen, Cumberland Council proposed a permanent road closure at the location. 

Assessments by United Utilities identified hazards that necessitated the continuation of the closure.

Protestors at Thirlmere last yearProtestors at Thirlmere last year (Image: Tom McNally)The closure meant that walkers, cyclists and horse riders were forced to use the busy A591 on the eastern side of the lake. 

The decision sparked strong public criticism, resulting in nearly 10,000 signatures opposing the plans as well as staged public protests. 

Further criticism arose when, in February this year, horse riders were allowed access to a lakeside road while walkers and cyclists were warned they would face prosecution if they used it.

Thirlmere road reopens to horse riders only at the beginning of the yearThirlmere road reopens to horse riders only at the beginning of the year (Image: Tom McNally)

Much to the relief of campaigners, United Utilities announced in February a 12-week work programme involving specialist contractors to remove storm-damaged trees and loose rocks suspended on the crag above the road with ambitions to reopen the road. 

Rock face inspection at Rough Crag Rock face inspection at Rough Crag (Image: United Utilities)

In May, the West Road and the lakeshore footpath was fully reopened until this recent closure.

The council is currently assessing the situation to determine the extent of the rockfall and any potential risks to the local environment, with further updates expected to follow. 

A spokesperson for Cumberland Council said: "The closure has been implemented to ensure the safety of all road users and pedestrians in the area" 

The council has also thanked the public for their patience as they work to resolve the situation.