Unrecorded Rights of Way

Footpaths which are not shown on the Definitive Map before the cut off date in 2026 will be lost forever.  Volunteers are needed urgently to identify unrecorded footpaths we should be claiming.

The criteria are:

  • the footpath is not shown on the Definitive Map
  • the footpath would be a useful addition to the Rights of Way network
  • the footpath probably existed before 1949

Clues to an unrecorded footpath are:

  • it suddenly ends at a parish boundary
  • it ends in the middle of nowhere
  • routes which seem to be separate from fields or properties e.g. they are bounded by hedges and appear to lead from somewhere other than private property
  • routes that link one right of way with another but are not themselves recorded as rights of way
  • routes shown as some sort of highway on old maps
  • routes that someone can remember being used by the public in the past

Any details of possible routes should be sent to Neil Allender by email.  A map or grid reference of the path would be helpful.

Those who wish to do more, and to get involved with historical research will also be very welcome.  If you are not familiar with archives, don't worry, help will be given.

Links to Definitive Maps

 

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