The Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way Sub-Committee met to review and comment on a proposed revision to the Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO) Prioritisation Policy. The committee resolved to review and comment on the proposed policy.

Revision to the Definitive Map Modification Order Prioritisation Policy

The Sub-Committee reviewed a report proposing changes to the policy that prioritises Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO) applications. The current system, which largely prioritises cases by date of receipt, has led to a significant backlog, estimated to take 30 years to clear, with 583 cases pending. This backlog can cause blight on properties, affecting sales and land value.

Andrew Fletcher, Public Rights of Way and Access Manager, explained that the proposed revision introduces a weighted scoring framework. This new system aims to prioritise cases based on their potential public benefit and the reduction of property blight, particularly for residential properties. Key factors in the scoring include public safety, impact on residential privacy and curtilage, user evidence, community conflict, legal proceedings, threats to routes, financial savings to the council, and network connectivity. The aim is to create a more transparent, consistent, and objective process for applicants to understand how their case is prioritised.

During the discussion, members noted the substantial increase in DMMO applications since 2020, with approximately 69% of the current caseload submitted by a single individual. Concerns were raised about balancing local needs with the views of parish and county councillors. Officers clarified that while parish councils might identify their own priorities, the new policy provides a consistent framework for determining relative priorities. The policy also includes provisions for appeals to the Sub-Committee and, ultimately, to the Planning Inspectorate.

The Sub-Committee resolved that they had reviewed and commented on the Revision to the Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO) Prioritisation Policy. This policy will be taken forward to the Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee and then to the Executive Councillor for a final decision.