The County Durham Local Access Forum is scheduled to discuss a range of issues concerning public access to land and rights of way across the county. Key topics include updates on major infrastructure projects like the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project, progress on walking and cycling routes, and the management of council-owned land. The forum will also receive presentations and updates on national and regional access initiatives, as well as local access partnerships.

A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project

The forum is scheduled to receive an update on the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project. Previous discussions indicated that contractors were working with limited flexibility for changes to the approved scheme. The project involves sections within County Durham, and the forum has previously sought assurances regarding improvements for walking, cycling, and horse-riding routes. The Pennine Way¹ is noted to be largely unaffected, with only a slight diversion planned for the Bowes Loop to accommodate surface water drainage.

Environmental Land Management Schemes

A discussion is scheduled regarding Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMs). In previous meetings, it was noted that a significant farmer uptake scheme had reached the funding stage before being withdrawn, with no further information available at that time.

Rights of Way Team Update

An update from the Rights of Way Team, including information on Lost Ways, is scheduled. This team is responsible for managing the Definitive Map², which records public rights of way. Previous reports indicated a number of Definitive Map Modification Orders³ were in progress, with some facing objections that would be referred to the Planning Inspectorate⁴. A public inquiry was also previously scheduled for April 2026 concerning Watergate Lane in Crook, relating to an order to upgrade a footpath to a bridleway.

Stockton and Darlington Railway Walking and Cycling Routes

The forum is set to receive an update on the Stockton and Darlington Railway walking and cycling routes. These routes are being developed in connection with the railway's bicentenary. Previous discussions highlighted ongoing negotiations with landowners to complete the route, with additional surfacing works planned for West Auckland. The route is approximately 26 miles long, with a significant portion within County Durham. The potential development of accessible circular routes branching off the main line is also a consideration.

Public Access to Council-owned Land

A discussion is planned regarding public access to council-owned land. Previous updates indicated that meetings with relevant councillors, including Councillor K Allinson, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism, Regeneration and High Street, had been postponed due to changes in Cabinet Portfolios. A briefing note summarising the history of the forum's work and the council's response to granting further access was previously provided.

North Pennines National Landscape Partnership

An update is scheduled from Mike Ogden, Access and Rights of Way Team Leader, concerning the North Pennines National Landscape Partnership. The forum will also note the minutes from the Access and Recreation Working Group and Pennine National Trails Northern Working Group meeting held on 21 November 2025. Previous discussions highlighted the launch of the Roof of England Walk and ongoing work to develop an accommodation guide. Concerns were raised about changes to booking policies at Langdon Beck Youth Hostel and Alston Youth Hostel, which now only accept group bookings, potentially limiting access for solo walkers. The group also discussed developments in accessible gates and the use of off-road mobility scooters, noting the availability of hire schemes at various locations.

Health

The forum is scheduled to receive an update from the Healthy Weight Alliance Group meeting held on 13 January 2026.

Heritage Coast Annual Forum Event

An update is expected following the Heritage Coast Annual Forum Event held on 29 October 2025.

Work Programme

The forum will consider and discuss its Work Programme for the coming period. Previous feedback indicated that the existing format was not considered fit for purpose, and work was planned to review the document in consultation with the Chair and Vice-Chair. The Work Programme outlines various topics, including liaison with Durham County Council (DCC), support for the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) 4, and representation at meetings for the North Pennines AONB Access and Recreation Working Group and the Pennine National Trails Northern Working Group.

Natural England Presentation

Christine Pope from Natural England is scheduled to give a presentation. This follows a previous discussion where members expressed a desire to hear from Natural England regarding its general activities, recent restructuring, and strategy. Members are encouraged to prepare questions for the presentation.

Other National and Regional Issues

The forum is also scheduled to receive updates on Active Travel North East, a regional initiative promoting walking and cycling.