Wardle Society

Wardle Public Footpaths

Wardle offers many opportunities for the walker, and as such several members of Wardle Society have helped to produce a map showing the public footpaths in and around Wardle.  The map can be Seen Here  The various numbers on the map represent each Footpath Number.
 
Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC) has direct responsibility for the definitive rights of way network within the borough.  They have a legal duty to protect the rights of the public in the use and enjoyment of the public rights of way in their area. 

The network of rights of way are mapped and accompanied by a statement that describes the routes. This is conclusive evidence that the rights contained on that map exist. This Definitive Map is continuously reviewed by RMBC - who also have an obligation to keep the map and statements up to date.

The map and statement is protected under current legislation contained within the Highways Act 1980, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Countryside and Rights of way Act 2000

As the use of public rights of way is increasing RMBC acknowledge that fact, and seek to maintain the routes to a satisfactory condition with the limited funding available.

Obstruction of a definitive route may come in many forms, including the erection of a fence, wall or building across a route, the presence of a vicious dog, bull or other animal, or overgrown vegetation. Should the way be obstructed this is an illegal act and should be reported using the contact details on the RMBC web site (Environmental Management - Footpaths Section)

Rights of Way Improvement Plan - Seen Here

Every local authority is required under section 60 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 to produce a rights of way improvement plan.

This rights of way improvement plan establishes a framework for rights of way and countryside access work from over a 10 year period (2007-2017). By identifying the key issues and pressures which affect access and rights of way in the borough, plans of action have been developed which will lead RMBC towards its goal of a sustainable network which meets modern day needs.