Public Rights of Way

What is a Public Right of Way (PROW)?

Like a public road, a public right of way is a highway which anybody may use at any time. Public rights of way are recorded on a Definitive Map and Statement (a legal record of public rights of way). Each route is classified according to the nature of the public's rights along them.

Who can use PROWs?
There are four categories of Public Right of Way intended for a variety of users:

Footpath
For walkers only. You are allowed to take a pram, pushchair or wheelchair along a public footpath but please be aware that many routes may not be physically suitable for that purpose. Public Footpaths are mostly way-marked with yellow arrows.


Bridleway
For walkers, horse-riders and pedal cyclists. Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse-riders. Bridleways are mostly way-marked with blue arrows.


Byways Open to All Traffic (BOAT)
Often just referred to as a Byway, for vehicles, cyclists, horse-riders and walkers. Because of its nature, it is used mainly as a footpath or bridleway. BOATs are mostly way-marked with red arrows.


Roads Used as Public Paths (RUPP)
For walkers, horse-riders and pedal cyclists. Some RUPPs may also be available to motor vehicles. You will need to make local enquiries to find out whether you are allowed to take a vehicle along any particular RUPP. All RUPPs are soon to be reclassified as Restricted Byways. These will be available for walkers, horse-riders, cyclists and horse drawn vehicles only.

Rights and responsibilities

Members of the public may

• pass and re-pass on any public right of way, even if it hasn't been used for many years,
   
• stop to look at the view, take a photograph, sit down to rest and so on,
   
• take a pram, pushchair, wheelchair, but expect to encounter stiles on footpaths,
   
• take a dog, preferably on a lead, but always under close control,
   
• take a short route around an illegal obstruction,
   
• remove an illegal obstacle sufficiently to get past.
   

The Highway Authority /County Council's is responsible for protecting the existence of established rights of way, as shown on the Definitive Map, and for maintaining them in a condition that is consistent with their purpose, and their level of use.   This includes path, bridge, stile and gate repairs and liaison with landowners over obstructions and diversions.