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<p>Public rights of way are a local issue and this matter is the responsibility of
the local County Council. We are unable to comment on specific cases, to avoid prejudice
should they come before a Government Minister or Planning Inspector for a decision.
I can, however, offer some general advice which I hope you will find helpful.</p><p>
</p><p>Public rights of way exist in four categories: footpaths for use on foot (or
with mobility scooters); bridleways for use on horseback or bicycle as well as on
foot; restricted byways for use of carriages in addition to the above; and byways
open to all traffic for use of motor vehicles in addition to the other types.</p><p>
</p><p>A public right of way is added to the network by either proving the way existed
through historic evidence or proving the public has used the route for 20 years. The
use needs to be at the appropriate level. For example, a bridleway would not be added
if there is no evidence it has been used by horses or bicycles. Whether the route
is amenable to local residents is not considered at this stage as it is an evidence-based
process only.</p><p> </p><p>Once a route is recognised as part of the network, a public
path order may be made to change the status of the route by agreement with the local
authority. Here convenience, safety and other such concerns are taken into consideration.
In both instances, the public has the right to object to the proposed changes to the
network and the local authority advertises the changes in order to give residents
the opportunity to give their views.</p><p> </p><p>The Planning Inspectorate (PINS)
administers rights of way cases on behalf of Defra. They deal with cases where the
decision has been challenged.</p>
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