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Written question asked by Baroness Scott of Needham Market (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Thursday, 2 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Rights of Way

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what legislation they will use to deliver their commitment, as set out in the Environmental Impact Plan 2025, to repeal the deadline for recording historic rights of way.

Answer

This Government remains committed to repealing the cut-off date for recording historic rights of way. This will save hundreds of miles of unregistered historic rights of way from the threat of extinguishment in 2031, ensuring that they can continue to be enjoyed by the public for years to come.

Defra is reviewing the rights of way reform programme alongside wider policies to improve access to nature for all users and, as part of that work, are considering the most appropriate legislative vehicle to deliver this commitment. Further details will be set out in due course.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1293
Session
2026-27
Related items
Environmental Improvement Plan 2025
Monday, 1 December 2025
Unprinted papers
House of Commons
House of Lords
Subjects
Rights of way
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk