This project aims to produce a new Countryside Access/Rights of Way Improvement Plan for Kent, for the period 2017 – 2027. Kent County Council has a legal duty to prepare and review a Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) under Section 60 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 and update the plan every 10 years. The plan must assess the extent to which the local rights of way meet the present and likely future needs to the public as well as the opportunities the PROW network can provide for exercise, open air recreation and the enjoyment of the area and the accessibility to blind or partially sighted persons and others with mobility problems. The plan must include a statement of the actions proposed to manage the PROW and for securing an improved network. In accordance with the guidance set out by DEFRA the plan must explain how improvements made by the local authority to the public rights of way network will provide a better experience for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, horse and carriage drivers and people with mobility problems.
Decision type: Key
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Notice of proposed decision first published: 23/03/2018
Decision due: Not before 28th Nov 2018 by Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services
Reason: In order that the proposed decision can be published for a minimum of 28 days, in accordance with statutory requirements
Lead member: Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services
Lead director: Katie Stewart
Department: Growth, Environment & Transport
Contact: Denise Roffey 03000418253 Email: denise.roffey@kent.gov.uk.
Consultees
Cabinet Committee recommendations and other consultation:
At the Environment and Transport Cabinet Committee of the 15 May 2018 a report detailing the review of the 2007 Plan and a draft ROWIP 2018 were considered. The Committee noted progress on the plan and resolved that the draft ROWIP progress to public consultation.
The revised draft and response to the public consultation was considered and endorsed by the Environment and Transport Cabinet Committee on 28 November 2018.
Financial implications: The plan will be forward looking by design; there will be no obligation to deliver projects identified through the review. Where projects are identified they will only be taken forward if the resource is available, where possible projects will be delivered through partnership working. The PROW and Access Service will look for funding through the planning system, 106 Agreement and CIL funding and other funding available to deliver projects. The Service will target existing core funding to deliver statutory obligations; the delivery plan will improve efficiency to ensure we provide a better targeted, improved service.
Legal implications: None
Equalities implications: An initial EQIA has been produced at the start of the review, this document is being updated throughout the review process and a final version of the EQIA will be submitted with the draft ROWIP document.