Changing the public rights of way network

It is possible to change the public rights of way network, for example, to change a path to follow a different route. Such changes can only be made by legal orders, known as Public Path Orders. These are advertised on site and in the local press to allow the public to comment.

Diversions - These can be made in the interests of the owner or occupier of the land, or in the interests of the public.

Creations - To modify the network to meet the needs of the people who may wish to use them.

Extinguishments - A right of way can be extinguished only if it is not needed for use by the public and, in all circumstances, it is expedient to close it.

Planning applications affecting public rights of way

The Rights of Way Section is consulted when any planning application appears to impact on a right of way or any route that may potentially be a right of way. The granting of planning permission does not mean that a public right of way affected by that application ceases to exist. If planning permission is granted, a separate legal process still has to be carried out to divert or extinguish the path. In case of a diversion, the new route must have been constructed and be open for public use before the closure of the old route.