Service Description: Public Rights of Way maintain, protect, sign and legally record the public rights of way network made up of public footpaths, bridleways, and byways. Public Rights of Way manages the most concentrated network of public rights of way in the UK. Within 147 square miles there are 520 miles of rights of way which include 326 miles of footpath, 165 miles of bridleways and 29 miles of byways. This equates to 3.5 miles of rights of way per square mile.
Also known as:- Bridleways, Byway, Country Walks, Footpaths (Grassy etc), Horse Riding, Public Access, Rights of Way, Rights of Way Orders, Walking
Answer: If you discover a public right of way is blocked for any reason, please advise the rights of way office as soon as possible. The blockage could be anything that would reasonably prevent you from continuing on your journey e.g. overgrowth, collapsed furniture, fences, gates that are locked, buildings, water, walls, dangerous conditions i.e. landslip, or intimidating people or animals. Please contact the rights of way department noting the path number, position and nature of blockage. We can then inspect the site and take any necessary action. If it is possible to easily pass by an obstruction then continue with your journey. We would not encourage people to divert or venture onto private land as you may commit a trespass. Rights of Way may be contacted on (01983) 821000 or [email protected]