Farmers and landowners are being reminded that if they have a bridleway, cycle path or footpath running across their land they are responsible for maintaining access to it.
During the lockdown, use of the countryside and Public Rights of Way has increased hugely but this new-found interest in the outdoors has come at a price
Incidents of trespass and illegal car parking at walking spots have increased ten-fold in the past year.
Also, the lighting of BBQs and the dropping of litter continues to be a problem for livestock and crops.
The Countryside Landowners Association and the National Farmers Union say a decrease in footfall in the countryside is unlikely to happen soon and that action is needed to prevent further damage.
They’re asking the public to play a greater part in easing the pressure on the countryside.
They’re also asking the government for the Countryside Code to the taught in schools.
Landowners can apply to their local council for a grant of up to 25% from maintaining Public Rights of Way. A quicker easier way to keep the public safe and negate risk is to divert public footpaths around livestock, or around existing footpaths that have been damaged through overuse.
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