A new plan is being launched setting out how County Durham’s vast network of footpaths, bridleways, and byways, will be improved and made more accessible.
Durham County Council’s Cabinet is being asked to approve the Rights of Way Improvement Plan 4 (ROWIP4) as it meets this week.
Titled Loving our Local Landscapes, the new plan sets out how the council will improve its network of Public Rights of Way (PROW) over the next ten years.
County Durham has much to offer those who want to discover its natural beauty. It is a large, geographically diverse area with a vast network of footpaths, converted wagonways and railway lines, which connect many towns and villages within the county.
The ROWIP4 focuses on four main objectives, which include managing and enhancing the network; promoting the contribution to the green economy; empowering communities and individuals to move more; and ensuring the network is accessible to people of all abilities.
Cllr John Shuttleworth, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for highways, rural communities and community safety, said: “We have strong aspirations to put County Durham on the map for its beautiful countryside and vast network of PROW.
“We want to attract both residents and tourists to enjoy time in the outdoors and see what our county has to offer.
“We are introducing ROWIP4 at a time when we use, need, and value the networks more than ever before, as we have grown to recognise the importance of utilising green space for the benefit of both our mental and physical health.”
Funding has been set aside to improve existing routes and signage as well as to create new paths where possible.
It is hoped a digital platform will be established where users will be able to find routes on the wider access network all in one place.
The digital platform would use GPS software to provide directions and would therefore not be reliant on receiving signal in areas where network coverage is often unreliable.
Users would also be able to report any issues with routes in real time, pinpointing precise locations and addressing specific matters.
Additionally, in the next ten years, the council hopes to establish at least ten accessible networks throughout the county. These routes will avoid impassable bridges, stiles, and spring-loaded gates, which can hinder access for disabled users, and will have accessible parking and detailed route information available.
To find out more about the ROWIP4 visit, www.durham.gov.uk/prow.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
Lets hope you consult with the locals this time. It might have avoided the despoilstion of the Auckland Way which is now a super highway for cyclists. The tarmac is already cracking, the contractors blocked the drains, people have fallen on the new ice rink and runners and walkers find it hard for their ankles.