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 will be asked to approve the Rights of Way Improvement Plan 4 (ROWIP4) when it meets next 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 10 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.
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 10 years, the council hopes to establish at least 10 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