Public rights of way

Mobility vehicles, wheelchairs and pushchairs can be used on all public rights of way, however some paths may not be suitable for this use if there are stiles or uneven surfaces.

It's important to note that it is a criminal offence to prevent the public exercising these rights. As public highways, public rights of way enjoy the same protection, provided by the Highways Act as proper roads. They also enjoy additional protection provided by other legislation namely the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, Countryside Act 1968, Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

It is also a criminal offence to drive a motorised vehicle on a public rights of way (other than a BOAT) without lawful consent.

If you stray from a right of way onto land with no other rights of public access, you are committing a trespass against the landowner. Visitors to the countryside should follow the Countryside Code.

Signs and notices

We have a duty to signpost all public rights of way that leave a road. This may be with a fingerpost or a coloured disc ('waymark'). Urban paths may not be signed where it is obvious and clear that the public can use them.

Signs or notices that misinform or discourage public use should not be placed on public rights of way.

Sometimes we need to inform people about changes, or proposed changes. In such cases, we will erect legal notices which should not be removed.

Permissive paths

A permissive path can be used by the public with the landowner’s permission. This permission can be withdrawn at any time. These routes are not public rights of way.

We do not hold records of private rights of access or land ownership.