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Written question asked by Lord Birt (Crossbench) on Monday, 25 March 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 April 2024. It was answered by Lord Benyon (Conservative) on Friday, 5 April 2024 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Bridleways and Public Footpaths: Motor Vehicles

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made, if any, of the scale of damage to public footpaths and bridleways caused by four-wheel drive vehicles and scrambler bikes.

Answer

The recreational use of motor vehicles on footpaths, bridleways and restricted byways is not permitted, therefore no such assessment has been undertaken. Any damage caused by illegal activity is a matter for the appropriate authorities.

The Government is aware of damage and disturbance caused by excessive use of off-road motor vehicles on highways where such activities are legal, such as byways open to all traffic and on other unsealed roads which carry motor vehicle rights, often referred to as ‘green lanes’. This issue was included in the consultation on the recent Landscapes Review. The results of the consultation concluded that the current Traffic Regulation Order process is legally robust enough to protect green lanes with targeted local action in sensitive areas, while allowing vehicle users to responsibly enjoy the countryside.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3573
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Damage Motor vehicles Public footpaths Bridleways
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk