Residents invited to help shape the future of Dorset's rights of way network

From the school run and daily dog walks to cycling commutes and family days out in the countryside, Dorset's network of public footpaths, bridleways and byways plays an important role in the lives of thousands of residents and visitors every day.

Now Dorset Council wants to hear from residents about how those routes could be managed over the next decade.

The council has launched a three-month consultation today (Tuesday 21 July) on the draft Dorset Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) 2026 to 2036. The plan sets out how Dorset's network of public rights of way could become more accessible, better connected and easier for people to use for recreation, active travel and everyday journeys.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Dorset Council's Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate, Communications, Performance & Safeguarding, said:

“Many of us use Dorset's paths without giving them much thought. They help us get outdoors, walk the dog, reach local services, enjoy nature and stay active.

“We want this plan to reflect the experiences of as many people as possible, not just regular users of the network. Whether you use local routes every day, occasionally, or feel there are barriers stopping you from using them, we want to hear from you.

“Your feedback will help us build on the strengths of Dorset's extensive rights of way network and identify where opportunities exist to improve access, connectivity and enjoyment for future generations.”

Public rights of way are the network of footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways and byways that link towns, villages, green spaces and countryside across Dorset. Dorset Council is responsible for maintaining and protecting more than 2,855 miles of routes across the county.

The draft plan includes ambitions to improve access for people of all abilities, create safer connections between schools and communities, expand traffic-free routes for walking, cycling and horse riding, and make it easier for people to discover and navigate routes through improved signage and digital tools.

Dorset Council, as the Local Highway Authority, has a statutory duty under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 to produce a Rights of Way Improvement Plan. This draft plan fulfils that duty while setting a broader vision for how Dorset's public rights of way network can support communities, health and wellbeing, local businesses, sustainable travel and access to nature over the next 10 years.

The consultation is open to everyone. Whether you walk, cycle, ride, use the network for everyday journeys, or don't currently use it at all, we want to understand your experiences and views. Feedback from residents and visitors will help shape the final plan before it is adopted later this year.

To have your say complete our short survey here