HC Deb 06 November 1997 vol 300 c279W
Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many miles of designated footpaths and byways exist in England and Wales. [14613]

Angela Eagle

In 1994, the last survey of rights of way in England indicated that there were 82,025 miles of footpaths and 1,864 miles of byways open to all traffic recorded under the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. A similar survey in Wales carried out in 1994–95 indicated that there were 19,441 miles of footpaths and 404 miles of byways.

In addition, there were also estimated to be 18,021 miles of bridleways in England and 3,440 miles in Wales, and 3,107 miles of roads used as public paths in England and 1,485 miles in Wales.

Mr. Blizzard

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to assist the re-establishment of ancient bridleways. [14179]

Angela Eagle

Local authorities are responsible for recording bridleways and ensuring that they are open and free from obstructions. They also have powers to create bridleways by agreement or order. With our statutory advisers, the Countryside Commission, we shall encourage authorities to make good use of their powers. As part of the Government's comprehensive spending review, we shall be considering the balance of expenditure between different recreational activities.