§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many public inquiries and at what estimated cost are projected due to the applications from the Trail Riders Federation to upgrade bridleways. [114777]
§ Alun MichaelI understand that information on public inquiries on rights of way is not held centrally in a form that makes it easy to provide an estimate of this sort. However I have asked officials to look at the level of applications and appeals and I shall write to my hon. Friend as soon as clearer information is available.
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§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received about the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 in relation to the upgrading of bridleways for off road vehicles. [114776]
§ Alun MichaelI have asked officials to look at the level of applications for the upgrading of bridleways for off road vehicles under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Definitive map modification orders, which can amend the status of bridleways to byways open to all traffic, are currently dealt with by local highway authorities, and if an objection is made to a modification order, it is referred to the Planning Inspectorate to decide the case on behalf of the Secretary of State. I will write to the hon. Gentleman once I have the information.