The Cornwall Countryside Access Forum does not have the power to make decisions. It advises Cornwall Council on how to perform executive functions in relation to public rights of way and countryside access.
The Forums primary purpose is to advise bodies specified in Section 94(4) of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW). This includes Cornwall Council. Advising on making the countryside more accessible and enjoyable for open air recreation. In ways to address social, economic and environmental interests. It encourages and assists access provision. Giving strategic advice on issues of particular relevance to Cornwall. It is expected to improve liaison between interest groups and link with other forums.
It gives advice on three main topics:
- the development of recreation and access strategies. Catering for a wide range of people
- the improvement of the rights of way network and
- implementation, management and review of the statutory right of access to the countryside
It also aims to:
- develop a constructive and inclusive approach to improvement of countryside recreational access
- respect local circumstances and different interests. Whilst operating within national guidance
- provide advice on issues of principle and good practice. Consistent with national guidance
- engage in constructive debate and seek consensus wherever possible
- where consensus is not possible, make clear the differing views and suggest resolution
Developing recreation and access strategies
The Forum also has a role in providing advice to a range of bodies specified in the Regulations in terms of:
- improvement of public access to land in the area. Whether by foot, horse, cycle, canoe, mechanically propelled vehicle or any other lawful means. For the purposes of open air recreation and the enjoyment of the area
- public access to land in the area. For any other lawful purpose. Whether on foot, horse, cycle, canoe or by any means other than mechanically propelled vehicle
- public access to land in the area by means of a mechanically propelled vehicle. For any other lawful purpose but only in so far as the access relates to byways open to all traffic (BOAT).
In giving advice the Forum aims to influence with independent, constructive, incisive and informed comment. Taking account of a broad range and balance of local interests.
Improving the rights of way network
Access authorities are required to prepare Rights of Way Improvement Plans. Under Section 60 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The plans aims are to review their rights of way network adequacy. As well as propose action to secure an improved network.
The Forum gives strategic advice to Cornwall Council on:
- reviews of rights of way. Including the extent to which local rights of way meet the present and likely future needs of the public
- the draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan before publication;
- the results of public consultation on the draft Plan. With any particularly significant issues which have arisen
- the priorities for the action plans which follow from the review and
- progress in implementing the action plan.
- The Forum takes a strategic approach to its work on rights of way. Advising on cases of national significance which have implications for local access provision.
Implementation, Management and Review of the statutory right of access to the countryside
The Forum advises and assists in the introduction, management and review of the statutory right of countryside access. Natural England has the power to close land or apply restrictions to the right of access. On the grounds of nature conservation, heritage, specific land management needs. As well as danger of fire, or other danger to the public.
Natural England may not be able to consult the Forum on each application for local restrictions, especially on short notice. But, it will aim to consult on applications for all extensive or longer-term local restrictions to access.