The Regulatory Committee of Lancashire Council met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to discuss and make decisions on applications to modify the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way.

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Definitive Map Investigation: Addition of a Footpath from Monks Gate, Tatham to Park House, Hornby

The committee considered an application to add a footpath from Monks Gate in Tatham to Park House in Hornby to the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way. After reviewing historical map and documentary evidence, the committee was recommended to accept the application with modifications. The recommendation was to record the route as a restricted byway between Monks Gate and Park House, based on evidence suggesting it was historically a public vehicular highway, with rights for mechanically propelled vehicles extinguished by the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. The committee was also recommended to promote the order for confirmation if necessary. A vote was taken to accept the recommendation.

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Definitive Map Investigation: Application to record Whitley Road, Upholland as Byway not Footpath

The committee also considered an application to upgrade Whitley Road, currently recorded as a public footpath (Upholland FP0821006), to a byway. Following a detailed examination of historical maps, documentary evidence, and user evidence, the committee was recommended to accept the application in part. The recommendation was to record the route as a bridleway between points A and G. Additionally, it was recommended to modify the Definitive Statement to remove the record of a footpath between points G and Z, as this section is considered to be part of a publicly maintainable vehicular highway. The committee was recommended to promote these orders for confirmation if necessary. A motion was proposed and seconded, and a vote was taken to accept the recommendation.

Progress Report on Previous Committee Items

The committee received an update on the progress of definitive map modification orders and public path orders since the previous meeting in January. This report, which details progress on various cases, was noted by the committee. The recommendations within the report were approved.