Public Rights of Way (PRoW) in the UK are legally protected pathways that allow the public to travel across private and public land. They form an important part of the country’s transport infrastructure and cultural heritage, providing access to the countryside and urban green spaces. There are several types of public rights of way, each with specific legal definitions and uses:
- Description: Paths on which the public has a right to walk.
- Usage: Walking, running, mobility scooters, and pushchairs.
- Legal Definition: A way over which the public has a right of way on foot only.
- Description: Paths on which the public has a right to walk, ride horses, and cycle.
- Usage: Walking, horse riding, and cycling (cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders).
- Legal Definition: A way over which the public has a right of way on foot, horseback, and with bicycles.
- Description: Paths open to all types of traffic, including motor vehicles.
- Usage: Walking, horse riding, cycling, and motor vehicles.
- Legal Definition: A way over which the public has a right of way for all traffic, but which is used mainly for walking, horse riding, and cycling.
- Description: Paths on which the public has a right to walk, ride horses, cycle, and use non-motorized vehicles.
- Usage: Walking, horse riding, cycling, and horse-drawn carriages.
- Legal Definition: A way over which the public has a right of way on foot, horseback, bicycle, and by non-motorized vehicles.
Legal Framework
The rights of way network is protected and maintained under several pieces of legislation, including:
Governs the creation, maintenance, and management of public rights of way.
Provides additional protections and public access rights.
Establishes the framework for designating National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and maintaining rights of way.
Management and Maintenance
Public rights of way are managed by local authorities, typically county councils or unitary authorities. They are responsible for:
Ensuring paths are clearly marked and accessible.
Keeping paths clear of obstructions and ensuring the surface is suitable for its intended use.
Preventing illegal obstructions or changes to the paths.
Importance and Benefits
Public rights of way provide numerous benefits:
They offer spaces for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding, promoting physical health and well-being.
They allow access to natural landscapes and promote conservation efforts.
They preserve historical routes and contribute to the cultural landscape.
They support local economies by attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
