Dartmoor ramblers handed new year boost by government

The post-Christmas Dartmoor ramble, a cherished tradition for many, has been given a new lease on life with the government’s decision to repeal the 2031 cut-off date for recording historic rights of way.

England is home to thousands of miles of unrecorded paths, often used by walkers, cyclists, and equestrians but not officially recognised or protected.

These paths represent some of the oldest traces of human movement in the landscape, with many dating back hundreds or even thousands of years.

For walkers, the sense of following in the footsteps of generations past adds to the joy of exploring these routes.

However, local councils have long struggled to meet the original 2031 deadline for assessing and recording these rights of way.

This challenge has been compounded by the estimated 40,000 miles of paths requiring evaluation.

The government’s move to reverse the deadline means these historic routes will no longer risk being lost to the public.

A Boxing Day announcement stated: “A healthy and thriving natural environment which everyone can access is a critical part of delivering long-term sustainable change across the country.

“Boosting access to nature will also help drive economic growth in rural communities, as part of the government’s Plan for Change.”

Baroness Hayman, Minister for Access, reinforced the significance of the decision: “Our countryside and green spaces are a source of great national pride, but too many people across the country are left without access to the great outdoors.

“These well-trodden routes, many of which have been in place for hundreds of years, are a part of our shared heritage.

“It is critical that we bring forward these measures to protect their long-term future.”

She also highlighted plans to plant three national forests and create new river walks, describing these measures as part of a “decade of national renewal.”

The repeal allows councils more time to determine whether a path qualifies to be added to the “definitive map.”

This legal record of public rights of way was introduced 75 years ago through the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act.

Once recorded, responsibility for maintaining these routes will rest with local authorities and the relevant landowners.

Marian Spain, chief executive of Natural England, welcomed the decision.

“Our centuries-old network of walking and riding routes are a wonderful way for people to enjoy our beautiful countryside and wildlife,” she said.

“Access to the outdoors makes a huge contribution to the quality of our lives and wellbeing, with ever-growing evidence of how vital contact with nature is for our physical and mental health.”

Ross Maloney, chief executive of the Ramblers, described the decision as a “fantastic step forward.”

“Not only are these paths an integral part of our shared heritage, but they will also have a critical role to play in the future by helping people live healthier, happier lives,” he said.

The announcement follows earlier government measures marking the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act.

These measures include strengthened powers for national parks to enhance their contributions to nature and people.

For Dartmoor’s walkers, the future of historic paths looks bright, ensuring this beloved pastime will continue for generations to come.