Regional timetable released for new right of access

Countryside users and land managers across England were today given the likely timetable for the introduction of the new right of access to open country under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

The right for the public to walk on England's mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common land is to be implemented before the end of 2005, and the Government decided in November 2002 to introduce it on a region-by-region basis. This will enable countryside users to start enjoying some of the new opportunities as early as possible rather than wait until mapping and appeals processes are complete for the entire country. Today's announcement gives details of the latest state of play on that regional timetable.

Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael said:

'The Countryside and Rights of Way Act will enable people to walk on land in some of the most beautiful areas of our countryside that were previously off-limits, whilst ensuring that this is balanced with nature conservation issues and land management needs.

'We have always stated our intention to open in regions as quickly as possible, and I am delighted today to be able to set out a clearer timetable for the new right of access to come into effect. I intend to open the first two areas - the South East and the lower North West

- on 19 September 2004 to coincide with National Walking Day.

'The process of mapping the countryside is complex and the timetable for the later areas may be subject to change. However, by making this information available now we can ensure that those people with an interest in open access, particularly landowners and managers and those preparing to use their new rights, can plan ahead.'

The current timetable of commencement dates in each mapping area is as follows:

Area Commencement Date Status

South East 19 September 2004 Confirmed

Lower North West 19 September 2004 Confirmed

Central Southern December 2004 Planned

Upper North West May 2005 Planned

North East May 2005 Planned

South West August 2005 Planned

West October 2005 Planned

East November 2005 Planned

For further information on the new access rights or for advice on how to manage public access, including details of the restrictions process for landowners and managers, visit the open access website at http://www.openaccess.gov.uk. To request the 'Countryside Access and the new rights' information leaflet, phone the Open Access Contact Centre on 0845 100 3298, or email openaccess@countryside.gov.uk