Birmingham Gets Definitive Map

Birmingham's rights of way network has received a significant boost with the news that the City Council will be introducting a 'definitive map' protecting around 145 paths around the city.

Up till now Birmingham has lacked such a map, which is the legal record of public rights of way, leaving its paths vulnerable to development, damage and obstruction.

Now though, a mapping process will begin to record the existing paths with the process beginning in August and expected to take years to complete. The decision is the culmination of a 20-year campaign by the Ramblers' Association and has delighted local walkers.

Bob Hunt, Footpath Secretary for the City of Birmingham RA, comments: 'Birmingham City Council deserve the warmest congratulations for their far-sighted decision to fund a Definitive Map for Birmingham.

'The City of Birmingham RA have campaigned for this for years. The definitive map will help protect the historical paths used by our ancestors, and ensure that we have legally defined, traffic-free rights of way at a time when we are all being encouraged to walk more.'

More information at www.ramblers.org.uk