Rights of way views sought
RESIDENTS are being asked to share their opinions in a 12-week consultation as to how they can improve countryside access for walkers, cyclists, horseriders and the disabled.
A COUNCIL wants to hear people’s views on how it can improve public rights of way in the Valleys.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is asking residents to share their opinions in a 12-week consultation as to how they can improve countryside access for walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and the disabled through its draft “Out and About” plan.
The council is reviewing its plan in order promote outdoor activity in the countryside, as well as walking and cycling, and to get local communities more involved with their green spaces.
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 means that councils are obliged to produce such a plan and review it after 10 years.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s plan was produced in 2007 and an assessment of the plan took place following Welsh Government guidance.
The plan’s key aims include:
to promote outdoor countryside activity for health, regeneration, tourism and recreation;
to promote walking and cycling as transport options;
to improve provision for walkers, cyclists, horse-riders, off-road vehicles and the disabled;
to involve the local community and voluntary organisations;
to develop a more efficient management system of rights of way
A report says that the council has many legal duties and responsibilities relating to public rights of way which it says are technical and little understood by members of the public.
But a consultation into Cwm Taf Health Board’s Well Being Plan showed that landscape, culture and communities were considered important to people’s wellbeing.
It also highlighted the importance of the countryside for tourism and regeneration and that many people would like to become more involved with their local green spaces.
After the consultation period is finished in September, a report will come before the cabinet with recommendations to improve public rights of way in RCT, with the plan set to be completed by the end of the year.