The Stockport Local Access Forum was scheduled to discuss updates on various highway and greenspace schemes, including the A34, Ladybrook Valley, and Heaton Mersey Common. The forum was also set to consider the inclusion of equestrians on new multi-user paths and the All-Party Parliamentary Group's call for evidence on outdoor recreation and access to nature.

Update on A34, Ladybrook Valley and Heaton Mersey Common Schemes

A verbal update was scheduled to be provided by the Highways & Transportation team regarding schemes on the A34, Ladybrook Valley, and Heaton Mersey Common. This would have included information on the progress of paths and any associated signage. Previous discussions noted that shared pathways were intended for cyclists and pedestrians, not equestrian use, and that while there were no bridleways on Heaton Mersey Common, equestrians were permitted to use the common itself.

Definitive Map Modification Orders Update

The forum was to receive a verbal report on outstanding Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs). These orders relate to the legal recording of public rights of way. The report was expected to be led by the Strategy Policy & Research Team Manager. In previous meetings, concerns were raised about the lengthy timescales for DMMO updates, with members suggesting decisions be made outside of Area Committees. Officers had indicated they were working with the council's legal team and reviewing archives to progress these orders.

Inclusion of Equestrians on New Multi-User Paths

A discussion was scheduled regarding the inclusion of equestrians on any new multi-user paths. This topic was previously raised by Debbie Hall, Vice-Chair of the Forum. Members had noted that Central Government had included horse riding within active travel funding announcements, suggesting equestrians should be incorporated into all new active travel plans. Officers had previously stated that equestrians were included in Stockport's active travel plans where feasible, subject to funding requirements.

Discussion on the All-Party Parliamentary Group Call for Evidence on Outdoor Recreation and Access to Nature

The forum was scheduled to discuss the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) call for evidence on outdoor recreation and access to nature. This APPG aims to explore issues surrounding people's engagement with the outdoors. The call for evidence sought input on how to improve opportunities for outdoor recreation and access to natural spaces.

Recent Activity

A verbal update was planned on recent activities, to be led by the Strategy Policy and Research Team Manager. This would have provided a general overview of ongoing work relevant to the forum's remit. Previous updates have included information on legal action concerning pathway obstructions, updates to the rights of way improvement plan on the council's website, and ongoing work on footpath 62M.

Forward Plan

Members and officers were invited to suggest agenda items for future meetings of the Stockport Local Access Forum. This allows for topics of interest to be raised and considered for future discussion. At a previous meeting, members had requested that equestrian footpaths be included on the agenda for a future meeting.