Rights of Way Consultation Underway

Residents across the city are being asked for their views on rights of way throughout Leicester.

Lib Dem run Leicester City Council is undertaking its Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIP), which in conjunction with the council's Local Transport Plan, involves improving and developing the network of rights of way in the city.

A questionnaire and summary of the draft plan enclosed in the city council's free magazine (Link) has been sent out to homes across the city. Residents can use it to explain which routes they use and what improvements they want to see and what they think of the first draft of the RoWIP.

Copies of the draft plan is available in libraries and the customer service centre at the city council's New Walk Centre.

Questionnaires can also be downloaded by logging onto the city council's website at www.leicester.gov.uk, selecting R on the A to Z of services, and clicking on Rights of Way.

Alternatively residents can ring 0116 252 6537 to get the form or full draft plan in a different format.

The RoWIP is part of work carried out by Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council to address transport issues in the region. It is due to be published in May 2007.

Local authorities have a duty to set out the 10-year plans under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, and must maintain, protect and record all paths.

The formal 12-week consultation period runs from August 21 to November 3.

Comments should be submitted in writing to the Highway Strategy Team, Regeneration and Culture, Leicester City Council, New Walk Centre, Welford Place, Leicester, LE1 6ZG.

Cllr Roger Blackmore, Leader of the City Council said, ""This consultation will give the public a chance to have their say on how the council can improve and promote the rights of way. "