Rights of Way improvement plan

Rights of Way Improvement Plans are the prime means for the Local Highway Authority to identify and prioritise actions to bring outdoor access up-to-date. This addresses the public need for recreation, sport, transport, health, economy, land-management, tourism and planning. Meaning it can fully benefit our way of life today.

The Dorset Rights of Way Improvement Plan identifies the key issues that need to be addressed to develop and improve the network.

The vision

Extensive research for the Dorset Rights of Way Improvements Plan - including working and consulting with local Dorset people, land managers and numerous organisations - has established that by:

• improving management and maintenance
• providing better information
• developing a network of paths that are safe and attractive to use
• involving local people

These, often overlooked, group of public paths and open spaces can achieve so much more and improve our quality of life.

Leisure

Opportunities to walk, ride or cycle in the natural environment to relax and keep fit benefiting our overall physical health and sense of wellbeing.

Transport

Opportunities for people to travel safely off road on foot, horse or bike to get to shops, school, work and other local facilities.

Economy

Opportunities for local people and visitors to enjoy Dorset - its local attractions, countryside, vibrant coastal and market towns and villages - helping to sustain local businesses.

Environment

Opportunities to enhance landscapes through path networks of good design; helping to manage how and where people travel protecting sensitive landscapes and helping to reduce vehicular use, congestion, air and noise pollution.