It will possible in some instances to reach areas of open countryside by existing rights of way. Some gates, styles and signs will already be in place. But in other areas you may encounter problems.
The three most common problems you may find are:
Inaccessible or isolated areas of access land
You may come across areas of access land which can not be reached legally, for instance by a right of way.
Access Land with no way crossings of internal boundaries
There can be numerous stone walls and post and wire fences, for stock control or denoting boundaries, within areas of open access land which may be difficult to cross. It is legal for any one exercising their right of access to cross these fences and boundaries as long as no damage is done in doing so. However in some cases, especially on large areas of open moor land this simply may not be possible or practicable.
Access land with no way of entry
Most access land will have some way in, but some may simply have no gate or stile.
Solving the problems
It is the job of Local Access Authorities to solve these problems and they have been given new powers to implement and manage the new CRoW rights. They can provide such things as gates, stiles, improvements to paths and new rights of way.
Local Access Authorities will try and work with the agreement of landowners, as this usually provides a longer lasting solution, but have the power to force them if not. To help pay for these improvements Access Authorities can apply for funding from the Access Management Grant Scheme.
Ways you can help / Reporting problems
If out walking you come across a means of access problem then please report it to us here at the Ramblers' Association and the Local Access Authority. To report a problem, fill out our online problem report form or, if you prefer you can download it as a PDF document. Please e-mail your report form to freedom@ramblers.org.uk or post to:
The Freedom to Roam Team
The Ramblers Association
2nd floor Camelford House
87-90 Albert Embankment
London SE1 7TW
Improving and increasing access to open countryside
