Thousands of miles of historic footpaths at risk of being lost forever could now be preserved, as the UK government has announced plans to scrap the 2031 deadline for mapping public
rights of way in England.
Under the current system, individuals had until 2031 to ensure unrecorded footpaths and bridleways were added to the official "definitive map." The government says removing this deadline will allow local councils more time to determine whether paths meet the necessary criteria.
While walking campaigners have welcomed the decision, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) expressed concerns, arguing that removing the cut-off date could prolong disputes and disrupt farming operations.
A longstanding effort to protect public rights of way
The requirement for local authorities to create definitive maps of public rights of way dates back to legislation passed in 1949. These maps, which serve as the official record of public footpaths and bridleways, remain under continuous review, allowing individuals with appropriate evidence to propose new additions.
There are an estimated 40,000 miles of unrecorded rights of way in England. Efforts to protect these historic routes have faced challenges, including limited council resources. As of March 2023, nearly 8,000 applications to add paths to the map were awaiting review, according to BBC research.
Previous plans under a Conservative government to scrap the deadline for registering historic paths were reversed, extending the cut-off date from 2026 to 2031 to provide clarity for landowners, councils, and the public. However, financial pressures on local authorities have made meeting this deadline increasingly unlikely.
Balancing public access and land use
Kate Ashbrook, general secretary of the Open Spaces Society, emphasized the importance of recording historic paths to prevent their loss. "If paths are not recorded, developers may build over them, or landowners might plant crops, obscuring access," she said. "Removing the deadline gives us a chance to secure these paths for public use and enjoyment."
However, NFU deputy president David Exwood voiced concerns about the impact on farming. "This perpetuates a focus on routes that have not been used for centuries," he said. "We need a modern network that balances public access with the needs of productive farming, safety, and responsible use in line with the Countryside Code."
A win for walking campaigners
Walking and outdoor groups, including the Ramblers charity, hailed the government’s announcement as a significant victory. Ross Maloney, the charity’s chief executive, said the move would safeguard thousands of miles of historic rights of way and ensure they play a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles.
"These paths are not just part of our shared heritage; they are essential for the future, providing access to nature and encouraging physical activity," he said.
Government’s commitment
Baroness Hayman, Minister for Access, highlighted the importance of preserving historic routes. "Our countryside and green spaces are a source of great national pride. These well-trodden paths, many of which have existed for centuries, are integral to our shared history," she said.
While the government plans to repeal the cut-off date, questions remain about how the backlog of applications will be addressed. The NFU has called for a clearer strategy to ensure the process is manageable for councils and landowners.
For now, the announcement marks a step toward ensuring historic paths remain accessible for generations to come, preserving both England’s natural and cultural heritage. Photo by Footpath at Shingle Street by Geographer, Wikimedia commons.