Since the publication of the last Waymark defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) have been consulting on two draft pieces of legislation which are significant to us as a Footpath Society as they could have a marked effect on our walking.

The first is: " Public Rights of Way a Consultation on implementation of the right to apply for orders to extinguish and divert public rights of way and associated rights of appeal."  If accepted in its present form it will give some, but not all landowners and users the right to apply for the diversion or extinguishment of a path.  Whilst recognising that there is a need for all counties to deal with requests in the same way (that does not seem to be happening at present) we are not convinced that the proposals as outlined are a suitable way forward.

The second consultation is a "Consultation on proposals to improve access to the English coast".  The vision described is: "A coastal environment where rights to walk along the English coast lie within a wildlife and landscape corridor that offers enjoyment, understanding of the natural environment and a high quality experience and is managed sustainably in the context of a changing coastline."  I think this is something we would all like.

would like to know more both documents can be viewed on defra’s website at www.defra.gov.uk.

In "Path News" I am sure Rowan Brockhurst will make mention of Linwood Bog where the routes of two Ellingham Harbridge and Ibsley footpaths (numbers 19 and 33) disappear.  It has been difficult to use these paths for many years and an attempt is now being made to get Hampshire County Council to make them usable again.  At present the route is not clear and there is a real danger of water going over the tops of ones ‘wellies’ when trying to walk the route.  It is possible that heather bales could be laid along the route and act as a floating bridge.  Other methods would probably be very costly and might use up most of the Rights of Way budget, something we would not want.  If any member can remember being able to use these paths without problems - perhaps in their youth please let Rowan or myself know.

Hampshire Countryside Service has produced a timetable of healthy walks which covers August and September.  Walks are between 1 – 2 miles in length, last 20 – 45 minutes and are led by a qualified walk leader.  All walks are free of charge.  For more information about these walks, including dates and meeting points contact Glenis Surplice

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