Chance to have your say on Kent’s footpaths and bridleways

Kent residents are being asked for their opinions on the county council’s plans for maintaining and improving Kent’s footpaths and public bridleways.

KCC has launched a 12-week consultation on its Public Rights of Way strategy for the next 10 years to discuss Kent’s footpaths & bridleways.

The vision outlined in the council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan is: “To provide a high quality, well-maintained PROW network, that is well used and enjoyed. The use of the network will support the Kent economy, encourage active lifestyles and sustainable travel choices, and contribute to making Kent a great place to live, work and visit.”

The plan identifies the following themes:

Active lifestyles – how use of the network has the potential to improve health and wellbeing;

Evolution of the network – changes required to meet current and future needs;

Knowing what’s out there – how the provision of information removes barriers to use;

Well-maintained network – how poorly maintained public rights of way act as a barrier to use;

Rights with responsibilities – responsible management and use of the network promoting good relationships;

Efficient delivery – why the Public Rights of Way and Access Service must use resources available to secure the greatest benefits for the public.

However, members of the public have the chance to say whether these themes are the correct priorities and make other suggestions.

The consultation is open until 12 September, and the questionnaire can be completed online at www.kent.gov.uk/rightsofwayimprovementplan. To request hard copies of any consultation materials, residents can email [email protected] or telephone 03000 421553.

Mike Hill, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said:

“Our Public Rights of Way and Access Service looks after a network of about 4,300 miles of footpaths and bridleways, giving the public access to the county’s wonderful countryside and coastline.

“Officers have been carrying out detailed research and analysis to produce this plan, which builds on the achievements of the past 10 years.

“I hope the public will take the opportunity to give us their views on how much they value the service and offer their own ideas on its future plans.”

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