Welsh Government Proposals to reform access legislation.
The Welsh Government proposes to reform legislation to allow cyclists and equestrians by right to use all footpaths. Ramblers Cymru has long objected to this arguing that changes should be looked at on a case-by-case basis Those of you who are also members of Ramblers will probably have been aware of this, but it was an article on Page 10 of the Ramblers Summer issue of ‘Walk; which alerted me. I’ve contacted Rebecca Brough, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Ramblers Cymru to see if the Society and Ramblers might work collaboratively to oppose changes to the legislation.
I have expressed concern about the proposals for allowing cycling and equestrians as a matter of course on footpaths, and The Society’s opposition to changes detrimental to the interests of walkers and countryside. Whilst acknowledging the need to allow for cyclists and equestrians to access the ‘Outdoors’, we recognise the potential hazards and damage of combining walking, cycling and horse-riding along the same paths.
Rebecca is appreciative of our support and willingness to work together. She has explained that in the latest meeting pre-lockdown, it seemed the idea of a blanket upgrade of cyclists/horse rider rights on all paths had little support, and hopefully a more measured approach will be recommended for any increase in access. However, the main issue, she believes with this whole process is timing – the Minister is not due to receive the recommendations until just weeks before the Senedd will dissolve in advance of the May 2021 elections. There is a possibility of a different minister who may choose an entirely different route for access reform (or no route at all).
One of the ways we as Society members can help is to provide evidence of where shared use has brought conflict, or if there have been safety incidents that you know of, then it’s useful to be able to cite these. Equally, being clear about where shared use is feasible and sensible (gradient/ sight lines/ surfaces, etc) so any examples of places where it works, to contrast with where it wouldn’t.
In anticipation of further discussions with Rebecca, I shall be grateful if you will provide me with: –
- Examples of incidents you have witnessed or been involved in. If you have this information, details of the Right of Way where the incident occurred would be helpful, including if possible, dates, grid references and / or footpath numbers.
- To have a balanced view, any comments you would like to make regarding the right of cyclists and equestrians to use all paths.
- Your permission to pass your response to Rebecca, and whether you agree to your name being included or not.
Your response should be forwarded to me at [email protected] .
Many thanks for your help,
Phil O’Shea
Rights of Way Officer