A right of way is a path that anyone has the legal right to use on foot, and sometimes other modes of transport:
Public footpaths can be used by walkers.
Public bridleways can be used by walkers, horse-riders and pedal cyclists.
If you have found a problem on a path, please report it to us.
Maintenance of rights of way
Working closely with landowners, our maintenance team investigates reports received from members of the public and user groups and carry out practical work across the area.
Signposting and waymarking
We have a duty to signpost public rights of way where they leave a metalled road. Rights of way are also signposted or waymarked particularly where the route is not obvious.
Stiles and gates
It is the landowner's responsibility to maintain stiles or gates on public rights of way on their land. We usually contribute a minimum of 25% of costs.
Obstruction
It is an offence to intentionally obstruct a public right of way.
Ploughing and cropping
Crossfield paths may be ploughed or cropped if the path is reinstated within 14 days. Headland paths should not be ploughed or cropped.
Overgrown vegetation
Landowners are responsible for cutting back hedges, trees or shrubs overhanging a public right of way. Surface vegetation or undergrowth on rights of way, such as nettles or brambles, are our responsibility.
Bulls
A bull can only be kept in a field crossed by a right of way if it is under 10 months old, or it is accompanied by cows or heifers.
Bridges
We are responsible for the maintenance and repair of foot and bridle bridges.
Surface
We are responsible for the maintenance of the surface of rights of way according to the status of the path; for example, a footpath will be maintained up to footpath standard - even if it may also be used by private vehicles.