Right of Way Improvement Plan consultation survey now live

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is asking residents to contribute to the ‘Rights of Way Improvement Plan’ (ROWIP) consultation survey as the authority sets out the overall direction of travel and aims for the development of the public rights of way network in East Yorkshire.

The council reassesses the ROWIP every ten years and makes amendments to it if necessary. It does not include details for individual improvements or addresses specific locations, but it helps to guide council officers and the voluntary and community sector partners in the development of a network that is more relevant to more people.

The survey includes multiple statements on which residents can enter a response which ranges between strongly agree and strongly disagree.

The council is currently updating the ROWIP to reflect important changes in the benefits that our countryside paths provide. For example, the health and well-being, active travel, leisure and recreation, and the social and economic value that the network provides.

Here is the draft consultation version of the ROWIP:

Draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2022-2032 (pdf 3.2mb)

Residents can have their say via the consultation pages on the council’s website: Have your say on the ROWIP or by emailing definitive.map@eastriding.gov.uk by 31 March 2022.

Based on information and comments received during the consultation process, the Statement of Action will provide a framework for managing the network, rather than providing solutions to individual cases, and will identify priorities for improving public rights of way, in line with the needs of all types of users.

Councillor Claire Holmes, portfolio holder for planning, infrastructure and housing at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Being able to enjoy time in a natural environment is really important for our mental health and wellbeing.  It reduces, stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression.

“Enjoyed alone, being more active can help boost immune systems and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as asthma. Enjoyed with others, it can combat loneliness and bind communities together.

“This survey is an opportunity for our residents to get involved in the strategic planning when it comes to managing our networks.

“Though it doesn’t include details for specific locations, it will give a good guide to the opinion of residents on a range of topics so adjustments can be made to the Rights of Way Improvement Plan to benefit all different types of users of our networks.”