Public Rights of Way in Rochdale
Rochdale Borough Council is a metropolitan borough
council with direct responsibility for the definitive rights of way
network within the borough.
We have a legal duty to protect the rights of the public in the
use and enjoyment of the public rights of way in their area.
The network of rights of way are mapped and accompanied by a
statement that describes the routes. This is conclusive evidence
that the rights contained on that map exist. This Definitive Map is
continuously reviewed and we have an obligation to keep the
map and statements up to date.
The map and statement is protected under current legislation
contained within the Highways Act 1980, the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 and the Countryside and Rights of way Act
2000.
Rochdale’s Rights of Way Network
The borough is made up of 6 towns Middleton, Heywood, Milnrow,
Wardle, Rochdale and Littleborough and has a total of 552
kilometres of rights of way in these areas, 80 per cent are
footpaths, for use by the general public on foot, and, 20 per cent
bridleways and restricted byways, for use by non motorised
vehicles, horse back, cycles and on foot. Rochdale has one of the
largest rights of way networks in the Greater Manchester area.
As the use of public rights of way is increasing
we acknowledge that fact and seek to maintain the routes to a
satisfactory condition with the limited funding available.
Modifications
Rochdale Borough Council may modify the map and statements after
completion of a definitive map modification order following a
successful claim or order to close or divert a route.
Permissive routes
A permissive route is a right over which the landowner has given
permission for use, they are not recorded on the definitive map and
the landowner can refuse access over these routes at any time.
Gating orders
This process is carried out by our Community Safety Service
and the Highways and Engineering Section.
Obstructions
Obstruction of a definitive route may come in many forms,
including the erection of a fence, wall or building across a route,
the presence of a vicious dog , bull or other animal, or overgrown
vegetation. Should the way be obstructed this is an illegal act and
should be reported using the contact details on this page.