We are responsible for maintaining approximately 60 miles (96 km) of public rights of way. These routes include surfaced paths as well as countryside tracks and trails.
Types of public rights of way
- footpaths - for pedestrians only
- bridleways - for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders
- byways - open to all traffic, including motor vehicles, cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians
Finding public rights of way
You can view public rights of way on the Definitive Map or by using Ordnance Survey’s Explorer 306 and Landranger 93 maps.
- view in person: Copies of the Definitive Map and Statement are available at the library in Community Hub Central during opening hours.
- legal copy: Available at the Civic Centre by appointment. Please contact the Countryside Access Team to arrange a visit.
Walking routes and leaflets
Discover scenic routes across the borough with our Self-Guided Walking Leaflets. Paper copies are available at:
- Civic Centre Reception
- the Tourist Information Centre
- local Libraries
- Summerhill Visitors Centre
Learn more
For general information about public rights of way, visit the GOV.UK website.
Changes to public rights of way
Public rights of way can be created, diverted, or extinguished through a legal process. These changes are recorded on the Definitive Map and Statement via a Legal Event Order.
You can apply for changes using a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO). This allows for:
- adding unrecorded rights of way
- changing the status of a path, such as from a footpath to a bridleway
You can apply for changes to be made to the Definitive Map through a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO). These are used to add unrecorded rights of way to the Definitive Map or add/change additional rights to a path, such as changing it from a footpath to a bridleway.
Current register of DMMO Applications
For DMMO application form please contact our team using the information at the bottom of this page.
Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP)
The Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2007 was developed in line with the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) guidance. It outlines how we plan to improve access across the borough.
A review and public consultation were scheduled for 2019. Your feedback is always welcome.
View the Rights of Way Improvement Plan and Maps (2007)
Landowner declarations – section 31(6)
Under section 31(6) of the Highways Act 1980, landowners can submit a declaration and map to acknowledge existing public rights of way and prevent the dedication of new ones.
Key information:
- a new application form is required (from 1 October 2013)
- deposits made after 1 October 2013 are valid for 20 years (previously 10 years)
- we will charge a fee for the receipt of any new deposit.
To discuss fees or submit a declaration, please contact the Countryside Access Team.