The Devon Countryside Access Forum was scheduled to discuss a range of topics concerning public access and rights of way in Devon. Key agenda items included updates on funding for National Landscapes, advice on the multi-use of trails, and responses to various consultations, including a significant planning application for the Tiverton Eastern Urban Extension. The forum was also set to review its work plan for the upcoming year and approve its annual report.

Access for All Funding in National Landscapes

The forum was scheduled to receive an update on the Access for All funding, a programme aimed at improving accessibility in National Landscapes. Discussions were expected to cover the range of projects submitted and completed, and the potential for future funding. The report pack noted that while the capital funding was targeted towards National Landscapes, National Trails and National Parks also received additional money. It was also highlighted that ongoing maintenance was not funded and needed to be factored into project planning.

Multi-use Trails and Landowner Liaison

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the topic of multi-use trails. The forum was to consider a multi-use advice note submitted to Devon County Council, which aimed to improve the usability of trails for various user groups. This advice note, developed after previous guidance from 2005 was deemed not sufficiently followed, offered recommendations on the use of terms like multi-use and shared use, the importance of low-cost alternatives for accessibility, delivery costs, standards for rural trails, surfacing, and overall accessibility for all users, including those with mobility devices.

Additionally, a revised position statement on liaison with landowners and land managers was scheduled for noting. This document addresses issues such as insurance responsibility, maintenance, risk assessments for livestock, financial implications, and the importance of clear signposting and path routing to minimise impact on land management activities.

Planning and Consultation Responses

Several planning applications and consultations were on the agenda for the forum to note and potentially respond to. A key item was the planning application for the Tiverton Eastern Urban Extension (Area B) in Mid Devon District Council. The report pack indicated a wide-ranging discussion was anticipated, focusing on the design of infrastructure to facilitate walking and cycling, traffic volumes, the management of a proposed countryside park, and potential impacts on the Grand Western Canal Country Park.

The forum was also to consider its response to the consultation on new woodland at Okement Woods, Okehampton, noting the dedication for public access under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, but raising concerns about the vagueness of the timeline for access and the lack of a public car park.

Furthermore, the forum was scheduled to review its response to the Department for Transport's consultation on Reviewing the Law for Powered Mobility Devices. The Devon Countryside Access Forum's response expressed strong agreement with the objectives of allowing people to use mobility devices, greater choice, and protecting both perceptions of safety and actual safety. The response also provided detailed views on the use of Class 1, 2, and 3 mobility devices on roads, pavements, and cycle tracks, highlighting the importance of speed restrictions and the potential impact of path furniture.

Public Rights of Way and Volunteering

An update on public rights of way was scheduled, likely covering ongoing projects and maintenance. A significant agenda item was the Use of volunteers in public rights of way maintenance. A background paper prepared for the forum examined various ways volunteers contribute to rights of way work, both in Devon and nationally. This included the established Parish Paths Partnership (P3) scheme in Devon, as well as examples from other local authorities like Worcestershire and Essex County Councils, and Somerset Council's Adopt-a-Path and Trail Watcher schemes. The paper also highlighted the involvement of organisations such as the Trail Riders' Fellowship and the Ramblers'.

Other Matters

The forum was also set to discuss its Work Plan for 2026-2027, outlining activities such as responding to consultations, proactive work on disability access and multi-use trails, and updates on various projects and landscape recovery initiatives. The approval of the draft Annual Report for 2025-2026 was also on the agenda.

The meeting was scheduled to take place at Stover Country Park, Newton Abbot.