1 Overview
Public Rights of Way include footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic.
Enquiries relating to Public Rights of Way can be submitted online. These include:
- a bridge with missing deck planks
- broken stiles
- fallen trees that are obstructing a right of way
- damaged or missing signs
We work with landowners to address issues brought to our attention, where they have a responsibility for maintenance, for example stiles, gates, trees and side vegetation.
To report problems with pavements and tarmac footpaths, use our road and pavement reporting service.
2 Our timescales
All enquiries received are logged and prioritised. We aim to inspect and address any problems reported to us within the timescales outlined below.
Health and safety
If there is immediate or severe danger to the public, we will inspect and address the issue within 2 working days. This may involve a temporary closure while works are organised to make the route safe.
High priority
If there is an obstruction, where no alternative route is available, we will investigate within 10 working days and take appropriate action.
Medium priority
If there is an obstruction or surfacing problem, where there is an alternative route available, or broken or missing signs, we will inspect as part of the routine 15 month inspection cycle.
Works will be completed as part of the routine maintenance or volunteer programmes. If the problem cannot be addressed as part of the routine maintenance programme (for example, where larger sections of surfacing are an issue) it will be prioritised against other issues in the county and considered for inclusion in our annual improvement programme.
Low priority
In case of minor obstructions, where there is an alternative route available, misleading signage or minor issues with stiles, we will inspect as part of the routine 15 month inspection cycle and will only be addressed if resources permit.
Not a maintenance priority
Improvements to the network or addressing of unavailable paths will be progressed if an opportunity arises and resources permit.
3 Enquiries not covered by us
There are various enquiries that will not be dealt with by the county council and include:
- fly-tipping - reports should be made to the relevant district or borough council
- litter and dog bins - problems should be reported to the relevant district or borough council
- trees - unless there is an obvious danger to path users, or an obstruction
4 Enquiries form
The online form provides the most effective way of reporting issues, enabling you to:
- pinpoint the exact location of a problem on an interactive map
- provide detailed information about the issue
- upload photographs to support their report
When submitting an enquiry, provide as much information as possible.
We do not monitor reports on weekends or bank holidays.
Right of Way enquiries form (external link)Phone 01243 777620 if you would like to speak to someone.