Views sought on improving access to countryside - 08/01/07
Interested organisations and individuals in the Vale of
Glamorgan are being given a further opportunity to comment on
proposals to improve countryside access, focusing on footpaths and
bridleways in the locality.
In line with the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000, the
Vale Council is producing a Rights of Way Improvement Plan –
"Improving Countryside Access in the Vale." The draft document is
now available for comment and copies are available at main Council
offices and libraries, or on the Council website
www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
The draft assesses the current state of access to the
countryside, and how this meets the needs of users and landowners,
and lays out an action plan for future improvements up to 2017.
There are approximately 550 kilometres of public rights of way –
footpaths, bridleways and restricted by-ways – in the Vale. In
addition, there are 500ha of common land, which, together with the
Glamorgan Heritage Coast and the country parks at Cosmeston
(Penarth) and Porthkerry (Barry), provide further opportunities for
countryside leisure activities..
Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure Cllr Gwyn John commented:
"The initial consultation has shown a wide spectrum of issues and
opportunities, including problems with signage, surfacing, stiles
and obstructions, a lack of bridleways and routes for motorised
users, the importance of accessibility for the less mobile, and
user information.
"This is an opportunity for everyone to contribute any ideas or
concerns to help the improvement and future management of
countryside access in the Vale."
Anyone wishing to comment by April 10 can contact the Rights of
Way team on (01446) 704705, or write to them at the Dock Office,
Barry, CF63 4RT, or via email to rowip@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk