The Devon Countryside Access Forum is scheduled to meet on Monday 28 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on climate change impacts on public rights of way, the use of volunteers in maintaining these routes, and updates on various public rights of way projects and consultations.

Climate Change and Public Rights of Way

A significant topic scheduled for discussion is a draft process note concerning actions to manage the impacts of climate change on public rights of way. This document aims to outline tangible steps the public rights of way team at Devon County Council can take in response to adverse weather events that damage the network. It will also consider potential pre-emptive actions for high-risk areas and aims to manage public and landowner expectations regarding the feasibility of quick solutions, which can be hindered by site characteristics, legal frameworks, land management, resources, and regulatory requirements.

The report details example issues such as surface water run-off, flooding, river erosion, landslips, cliff falls, high winds, and increased vegetation growth due to a longer growing season. It outlines three potential long-term resolutions for damaged paths: remedial works and reinstatement, the creation of a new alignment to bypass the damage, or the path becoming lost to erosion with no viable alternative. Pre-emptive measures, subject to identification as a high-priority route and sufficient resources, will also be considered. The process note aligns with the Devon Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) and the Highways Asset Management Plan (HAMP), referencing objectives to ensure the public rights of way network is maintained to appropriate standards and respects Devon's environment while contributing to carbon reduction targets.

Volunteer Engagement in Public Rights of Way Maintenance

The meeting is also set to explore the use of volunteers in public rights of way maintenance. This topic has generated considerable discussion, with a consensus on the value of encouraging and supporting volunteer groups and individuals. Points raised include the need for a single point of contact for volunteering opportunities, the potential of organisations like the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) and the Green Lane Association (GLASS) with their volunteer bases and funding, and the untapped potential within Devon's older demographic.

Concerns have been noted regarding the capacity of local authorities to manage volunteer involvement, highlighting the need for better engagement and support through systems that could professionalise volunteering with training, skills development, and risk assessments. The success of volunteer schemes run by organisations such as Surfers Against Sewage and Devon Wildlife Trust is also highlighted as a potential model. The discussion is expected to cover the possibility of contracting out volunteer supervision to charities or CICs, and the potential benefits of youth volunteering. Richard Walton, a representative from Devon County Council, is expected to provide an update on a new officer supporting community involvement and discussions around reviewing and improving the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) scheme.

Public Rights of Way Updates and Consultations

Several updates on public rights of way (PROW) activities are scheduled. This includes information on the King Charles III England Coast Path, which is now formally open in Devon. The report will also cover ongoing issues with river and coastal erosion, with examples at Branscombe/Beer, Newton & Noss, Newton Abbot, and along the River Otter, and the priority given to reinstatement and diversion projects. The completion of the Restoring Stover Park project will be noted, along with thanks to the project team and partners.

Budget allocations for PROW maintenance and shared use/off-road trails for 2026-27 will be presented. The meeting will also receive an update on the Luppitt Landscape Partnership, which includes proposals to improve public access.

Current consultations are also on the agenda, including the forthcoming South Devon National Landscape Plan. The Forum will also consider responses to various consultations and submissions.

Other Discussions

The meeting will also include a discussion on the appointment of a new Forum Officer, Bex House, who is scheduled to take up the post on 1 June. The potential impacts of the Local Government Review (LGR) on the Forum's structure and remit will be discussed, with indications that new shadow authorities may be set up in 2027. The Forum's terms of reference are also due for review and updating.

Additionally, the Forum will receive an update on the Public Rights of Way Committee meeting held on 24 March 2026, which included a verbal update on the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) scheme. The agenda also lists a discussion on the East Devon Local Plan, with an indication that liaison will continue but there are no current updates. The Forum's work plan for 2026-2027 will be reviewed, with suggestions for future meeting topics including multi-use routes and volunteering. The draft annual report will be presented.

Finally, the meeting will address the date of the next meeting, which is scheduled for Monday 28 September 2026.