Local authority group ADEPT and the Institute of Public Rights of Way & Access Management are asking their members for feedback on the impact of the pandemic on public rights of way.
Reports suggest that some landowners have attempted to close or block rights of way, but new guidance urges them to tie gates back and erect public notices so people can stay on the right side of the law.

ADEPT’s rights of way managers’ group chair Paul Newark said: “We have seen an increased use of rights of way that has sometimes led to tensions with farmers, landowners and residents when new walkers are unfamiliar with how to behave in the countryside or use gates and stiles safely.

“We would like to understand the extent of these problems across the country, and to share this evidence with Government departments and agencies to better inform their decisions and advice.”

Institute of Public Rights of Way & Access Management president Chris Miller added: “During this unprecedented and uncertain time many have taken advantage of local rights of way or other access networks to take their daily exercise. In doing so it has provided officers of local authorities with new challenges in trying to maintain a service at the same time as observing governmental guidelines.”

Last week Natural England – the Government’s advisor for the natural environment – said that footpaths and other rights of way in rural areas remain open, but urged people to avoid using paths that ‘may take you through a farmstead or other rural business where social distancing may be difficult’.

It added that landowners do not have the legal right to block or obstruct footpaths. But it said that where large numbers of people are using routes, landowners may like to consider tying gates open so walkers do not need to touch them, display ‘polite notices’ encouraging users to follow social distancing guidelines and offer an alternative route around farmyards and gardens where it is safe to do so.

National Farmers’ Union deputy president Stuart Roberts said: “Farmers recognise the importance of the public rights of way network, especially at a time like this when people need to take extra care to maintain their physical and mental health."

He added: “The health of those living and working in the countryside also has to be safeguarded and walkers need to be aware of their role in protecting rural people. It is also a busy time in the farming calendar with plenty of young lambs around and we ask dog owners to take extra precautions when walking through farmland.”

(Photograph: Keith Evans and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence)