Public rights of way
What is a public rights of way?
Public rights of way are public highways that are legally protected in the same way as roads, which the public have the right to pass and re-pass.
These can be:
- public footpaths for pedestrians only;
- public bridleways for pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists; and
- public byways for pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists and motorised vehicles, subject to the character of the way.
What you can do
To report a problem with a public rights of way, you will need to provide us with the following:
- the location of the problem; and
- a brief description of the problem.
What we can do
We can offer advice and where appropriate take action over blocked or disputed public rights of way.
We are responsible for ensuring that public rights of way are kept clear of obstructions and that landowners meet their responsibilities.
What don't we do
We cannot take action over blocked or disputed private rights of way, anyone affected in this way should consult a solicitor.
Do it online
Contents of Public rights of way
- What is a public rights of way? (this page)
- Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIP)
