Policy information sourced from Windsor and Maidenhead Local Plan
IF 5 Rights of Way and Access to the Countryside
Development proposals will be supported provided that they protect and safeguard the existing rights of way network and do not adversely affect the recreational and amenity value of the existing rights of way network. Development proposals will need to demonstrate how they:
- promote accessibility, linkages and permeability between and within existing green corridors including public rights of way such as footpaths, cycleways and bridleways
- promote the integration of the development with any adjoining public open space or countryside
- promote accessible and attractive cycle routes through the site and connecting the site to local schools, shops, stations and other community facilities
- are consistent with the Borough’s Public Rights of Way Management and Improvement Plan 2016 – 2026.
Development proposals should, wherever possible, aim to realign the route of the Green Way to follow watercourses. Development proposals should also, wherever feasible, take the opportunity to realign the Thames National Trail to ensure it follows the river.
Opportunities will be sought to add to and enhance the existing National Cycle Network and to improve connections to it from local communities.
New walkwaysandpedestrianlinksareencouraged wheretheyareneededas setout inthe ROWMIP 2016-26 and the annual Milestones Statements (Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Milestones Statement and Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan Annual Reviews).
The Council willassess thepotential for improvingpublicaccess andrecreationinindividual situations against any detrimental impact which may be caused. Any initiatives to improve public access to the countryside identified in neighbourhood plans will specifically be encouraged.
Where appropriate, the following initiatives will be encouraged:
- improvements to the existing public rights of way network including improving accessibility for disabled or elderly people and families with pushchairs
- creation of new rights of way and cycle routes access agreements with local landowners to enable public access to suitable areas for informal recreation like woodland, meadows or riverside areas
- management of existing facilities
- improvement of public transport links to the countryside.
For more information please see the Local Plan