The Regulatory Committee of Lancashire County Council met on Wednesday 3 June 2026 to discuss various matters concerning public rights of way. Key decisions included the ratification of a definitive map modification order for a bridleway near Flensburg Way, and the rejection of applications to upgrade footpaths to bridleways in Latham and add a bridleway across Farrington Moss. The committee also approved several footpath diversion orders across the county.

Ratification of Bridleway Order near Flensburg Way

The committee ratified a definitive map modification order to record a bridleway between Bannister Lane and Moss Lane adjacent to Flensburg Way, Farington. This decision followed an administrative error where the order had been confirmed without returning to the committee for a final decision. Councillor Mark Clifford moved the ratification, seconded by County Councillor Fred Cottam, and it was approved by the committee.

Rejection of Applications to Upgrade Footpaths

Two applications to upgrade footpaths to bridleways were rejected.

The first, concerning Cranes Lane and Lady Alice's Drive in Latham, was rejected due to insufficient map and documentary evidence to infer public bridleway rights. Jane Turner presented the findings, noting that historical evidence suggested the routes originated as private estate roads and there was a lack of modern user evidence. Councillor Fred Cottam moved the rejection, seconded by County Councillor Maria Jones.

The second application, for a bridleway across Farrington Moss west of Flensburg Way, was also rejected. Jane Turner explained that while the route was shown on some maps, there was a lack of sufficient evidence to support public rights. Simon provided legal observations, advising that the evidence was likely insufficient to assert that a bridleway subsisted. Councillor Graeme Austin moved the rejection, seconded by Councillor Jones.

Approval of Footpath Diversion Orders

The committee approved several applications for the diversion of footpaths under Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 and Section 53A of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. These diversions were primarily requested due to new housing developments, property sales, or to improve privacy and security for residents.

• Cross Keys Inn, Whitechapel, Preston: An order was approved to divert footpaths FP0605112 and FP0605113. Councillor Jones moved the approval, seconded by Councillor Austin.
• Quilter Close, Accrington: An order was approved to divert footpath FP1105303. Councillor David Howarth moved the approval, noting concerns about developers not undertaking due diligence at the planning stage. Councillor Graeme Austin and Councillor Fred Cottam also spoke, with Councillor Cottam expressing frustration at approving diversions after construction had already occurred. The committee approved the order, moved by Councillor Graeme Austin and seconded by County Councillor Maria Jones.
• De Tabley Mews, Ribchester, Ribble Valley: An order was approved to divert footpath FP0313040. Councillor Graeme Austin moved the approval, seconded by County Councillor Mark Clifford. Concerns were raised about the visibility of gates and the necessity of the diversion, but David Goode clarified maintenance responsibilities and the public's right to use the existing path until the diversion takes effect.
• Woodside Crescent, Newchurch, Rossendale: An order was approved to divert footpath FP1404202. Councillor Clifford moved the approval, noting that the steps in question had existed for a long time and it would be harsh to impose changes on the current owner. Councillor Fred Cottam seconded the motion.
• Swallows Barn, Pendleton, Ribble Valley: An order was approved to divert footpath FP0332007. Councillor Graeme Austin moved the approval, highlighting safety benefits in an agricultural setting. Councillor Mark Clifford expressed surprise at the route's potential lack of use, and Councillor Fred Cottam noted the convenience for the landowner. David Goode provided a clarification on grid references. The committee approved the order, moved by Councillor Graeme Austin and seconded by County Councillor Liam Thomson.
• Wholaw Tongue Farm, Whitewell Bottom, Rawtenstall, Rossendale: An order was approved to divert footpaths FP1404218 and FP1404224. Councillor Mark Clifford moved the approval, seconded by County Councillor Graeme Austin.

Other Business

• Item 17: This item, concerning the Lancashire County Council Bridleway between Bannister Lane and Moss Lane adjacent to Flensburg Way, Farington, was dealt with at the beginning of the meeting in relation to item 8.
• Item 18: No urgent business was raised.
• Item 19: The date of the next meeting was set for Wednesday, 9 September 2026, at 10:00 am in Committee Room B.

The meeting concluded with thanks to all attendees.