Have Your Say on Cornwall’s Public Rights of Way

Cornwall Council is inviting everyone to take part in a baseline survey to understand how people use Public Rights of Way (such as footpaths and bridleways) and what they mean to residents, businesses and visitors across Cornwall.

This information will help update the Cornwall Rights of Way Improvement Plan, which will set priorities for managing the network over the next ten years.

What the Survey Covers

We want to hear from you about:

• Why you use Public Rights of Way and what they mean to you

• How you use them – the types of journeys you make and where

• What barriers prevent you from using them more often

Why It Matters

Cornwall’s Rights of Way network spans over 4,500 km, connecting moorlands, beaches, river valleys, towns, and villages. Our Rights of Way are a vital part of how many people across Cornwall travel, helping us to get to school, work or connect with friend and family.

Along with providing access for recreation and tourism, they have a vital role in improving access to nature and create active travel routes that are important to support healthier lifestyles and sustainable communities.

A Message from cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change Cllr Loic Rich

“Rights of Way are an important part of the Cornish highway network. As the local highway authority, Cornwall Council wants to better understand how well they serve users and how we can improve them for one and all. Connectivity between people and the natural environment, brings a huge range of benefits to us, from improved health and well-being, to greater awareness of our various urban and rural settings. And it's all free to use.

The Rights of Way Improvement Plan must consider and balance the needs of walkers, horse riders, cyclists, and people with mobility challenges or sensory impairments, as well as other users of Public Rights of Way. That’s why it’s so important we hear from as many people as possible.”“Rights of Way are an important part of our highway network. As the Local Highway Authority, Cornwall Council wants to understand how well they serve users and how we can improve them for everyone.

The Rights of Way Improvement Plan must consider the needs of walkers, horse riders, cyclists and people with mobility challenges as well as other users of Public Rights of Way. That’s why it’s so important we hear from as many people as possible.”

Take Part

The survey is available on the Council’s Let’s Talk platform:

https://letstalk.cornwall.gov.uk/rowip

Deadline: 28 September 2025 (But earlier responses are encouraged!)