Equine charity, The British Horse Society (BHS) is hugely relieved to learn that the UK Government has today announced its decision to repeal the 2031 Cut-Off date. This means that thousands of rights of way across the UK will no longer vanish in seven years’ time, helping more people in the future to access the great outdoors and all the benefits this brings.
For equestrians in particular, an improved off-road network of bridleways and byways is hugely important. Since 2010, over 630 horses have been killed on UK roads and 1,500 injured. More than 1,680 equestrians have been injured too. These routes will play an essential role in helping to eliminate further fatalities, as they enable horse riders and carriage drivers to avoid, or at least minimise, the time spent on fast-flowing roads.
Mark Weston, Director of Access at The British Horse Society says: “Recent years have illustrated just how vital off-road access is for the safety, health and wellbeing of horse riders and carriage drivers, as well as walkers and cyclists.
The government’s intention to repeal the 2031 cut-off date is a huge step. Not only does it mean that our routes can be protected for future generations to enjoy and treasure, but it is also very important for the safety of the general public.”
Since the cut-off date was introduced by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, the BHS has been committed to lobbying the government to abolish this deadline. The charity has also been working tirelessly to safeguard these public assets.
Mark adds: “Through our Project 2026 campaign (the originally proposed cut off-date), we have made great steps to save over 3,700 bridleways and byways from being wiped off the Definitive Map. Our trained volunteers have worked tirelessly across England to research and submit these applications to local authorities.
Despite the huge backlog of undetermined applications sitting with local authorities, several have been successful - from saving almost 2km of bridleway in North Yorkshire to broadening the connectivity of a local network in Oxfordshire by 2.77km.
While we may no longer be working towards a looming deadline, we will continue to collaborate with our brilliant network of 400 access volunteers to record routes. We are committed to making sure our off-road network is protected from obstruction, development and neglect. Researching and recording our routes is the very best way to do this.”
For further information about the BHS and the work it does to enhance and maintain the UK’s access network, visit:
Contact: The British Horse Society Press Office
T: 02476 840521
The British Horse Society:
Equine charity, The British Horse Society is dedicated to education, equine welfare, protecting and increasing access to bridleways and places to ride and carriage drive off road, and safety for horse and riders. The Society’s thriving and active community of staff and volunteers is committed to improving the lives of horses everywhere.