The meeting focused on the review and approval of the milestone statement and rights of way improvement plan for 2024-2025. The discussion highlighted the achievements and challenges faced in maintaining and improving public rights of way in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

The most significant topic was the approval of the milestone statement and rights of way improvement plan for 2024-2025. Jackie Wheeler, the Parks and Countryside Access Officer, introduced the report, which included the results from the 2023-2024 year and set priorities, targets, and service standards for the coming year. The milestone statement, now in its 26th year, outlines the council's responsibilities for managing and maintaining public rights of way. Wheeler emphasized the importance of these paths for residents and visitors, and the council's ongoing collaboration with various partners, including the Local Access Forum, parish councils, and landowners.

Councillor Craig Baskerville inquired about the reduction in volunteer hours for public rights of way maintenance. Wheeler explained that the decrease was due to the conservation volunteers (TCV) not receiving the RBWM grant this year, but efforts are being made to secure heritage lottery funding to support volunteer management in the future.

Councillor Simon Werner raised concerns about specific schemes, including the towpath from Mill Lane to Odney Common and the footpath across the weir in Cookham. Wheeler noted that the towpath issue would be revisited with the landowner, and the footpath access problem is being discussed with the Environment Agency, which has safety concerns.

Councillor John Hill highlighted the need for a new parish rights of way leaflet, noting that Sunninghill and Ascot were interested in creating one. Wheeler confirmed that the parish councils typically fund these leaflets, with the borough facilitating their design and information.

Councillor Werner also asked about the use of composite materials for bridges, referencing a bridge named after Margaret Baldry. Wheeler stated that wood is generally used for bridges due to its availability and cost, but she would look into the use of composite materials.

The meeting also included a PowerPoint presentation showcasing volunteer work on various public rights of way, including litter picking, vegetation clearance, and path maintenance. Wheeler acknowledged the significant contributions of volunteers and corporate groups, despite the challenges in coordinating these efforts.

Councillor Werner and Councillor Helen Taylor expressed appreciation for the volunteer efforts and inquired about ways to increase volunteer participation. Wheeler mentioned ongoing collaborations with the community team and efforts to promote volunteer opportunities through residence newsletters and community groups.

The milestone statement and rights of way improvement plan for 2024-2025 were approved unanimously.