Responsibilities on Rights of Way

Surface repairs - to ensure paths are in a suitable condition for path users. Please note there is a waiting list for surface repairs. Where a right of way also has vehicle access, landowners have the same responsibility.
Surface vegetation – to ensure paths are accessible. We carry out clearance throughout the county during the summer, covering 50-100 miles of paths.
Bridges – we maintain most bridges on rights of way, including timber boards over ditches and larger bridges over streams. If a bridge is also required by a landowner for private vehicular access we may share the costs with them.
Steps - to provide easier access. We maintain them to ensure they are safe to use.
Signposting - at the roadside and path junctions. We also install discs where needed.

Landowners and occupiers

Stiles and gates should be safe to use and not obstruct the path. Gates should not be locked. Stile kits can be ordered from the Rights of Way Team.

Trees, hedges and fences alongside paths should not obstruct the path or reduce the width. They should not pose a safety risk to path users.
Obstructions and encroachment – paths should not be obstructed or encroached in any way. This includes anything that will prevent path users accessing the path or post a risk to them.

Ploughing and cropping - paths across arable fields should be available and visible at all times. For example, by marking them out with a tractor. Crops should be cleared to at least 1 metre for a footpath, or 2 metres for a bridleway. Headlands paths should be at least 1.5m for a footpath or 3 metres for bridleways.
Animals known to be dangerous should not be kept on land where a right of way crosses. Bulls over 10 months old should not be kept on land where a right of way crosses. With the exception of beef bulls, but they must be accompanied by cows or heifers.

Misleading or intimidating signs that deter path users must not be on or next to a public right of way. Please contact us for guidance of appropriate wording.