The Regulatory Committee of Warwickshire Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 3 February 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a significant discussion regarding a proposed diversion order for public footpaths AL28 and SD23a in Bidford on Avon. Additionally, the committee will receive an update on appointments to external bodies.

Diversion Order of Public Footpath AL28 & SD23a in Bidford on Avon

A key item for discussion is the proposed diversion of a section of public footpath AL28 and SD23a in Bidford on Avon. The report pack details the application received in 2021 to divert part of the footpath that currently runs through the applicant's garden. The existing route is approximately 632 metres long, while the proposed new route would be approximately 390 metres.

The applicant wishes to divert the footpath to enhance privacy and security, as the current route passes through their garden. The proposal also aims to remove the need for users to navigate a steep embankment, which drops approximately 4 metres, and to address issues where approximately 60 metres of the existing route floods in heavy rainfall, making it impassable for significant periods.

The council, as the Highway Authority, has the power to make such diversion orders under section 119 of the Highways Act 1980¹ if it is deemed expedient in the interests of the landowner or the public. The report outlines that the order was made on 19 July 2022, and statutory notices were published. However, 29 objections to the diversion were received. The committee will need to decide whether to send the order to the Secretary of State for Confirmation or to not proceed further.

The report details extensive consultation with various bodies, including the Bidford on Avon Parish Council, The Ramblers, and the British Horse Society. It also assesses the proposal against legal tests, considering factors such as public convenience, the impact on public enjoyment, and the effect on other land. Numerous objections have been received, with key themes including historical precedent, the perceived inaccuracy of maps, the route's length, and the loss of a circular walk. Conversely, supporters highlight safety improvements, better accessibility, and the potential for enhanced views.

The report also touches upon financial implications, noting that the applicant will fund the installation of the new route, but council costs for dealing with the Planning Inspectorate will be met from approved revenue budgets. Environmental implications are also considered, referencing relevant legislation such as the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006².

Appointments to External Bodies - Update

The committee is also scheduled to receive an update on appointments to external bodies. The recommendation is to approve nominations for three councillors to specific organisations:

• Councillor Stephen Shaw to the WMCA Investment Zone Board.
• Councillor John Waine to the Warwickshire Corporate Parents Association.
• Councillor Dale Bridgewater (Portfolio Holder for Fire and Rescue and Community Safety) to Nicholas Chamberlaine's Trusts, which includes Nicholas Chamberlaine's Hospital and Nicholas Chamberlaine Schools' Foundation.

The report notes that membership of these bodies may incur travel costs, which are expected to be met from within the current budget for member expenses, with virtual meetings potentially offering some mitigation.