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Public Rights of Way

Definitive Map

Our countryside has a priceless heritage of public rights of way - ways where the public have a right to walk and in some cases, to ride horses or bicycle or to drive or ride vehicles. So that everyone may know which routes are public rights of way, local authorities have drawn up special maps, called definitive maps. Although they are called "definitive" maps, they can be amended by modification and reclassification orders.

WHAT IS A DEFINITIVE MAP?

Definitive maps are a legal record of the public's rights of way. If a way is shown on the map then that is conclusive evidence of public rights along the way unless there has been a legally authorised change. Definitive maps are a major element in providing evidence of the existence of public rights of way but they may not show the full picture. There may be additional rights over land which have not yet been recorded on the map, or there may be rights of way which are incorrectly recorded on the map. For example, if a way is shown on the definitive map as a bridleway it is conclusive evidence that there are rights of passage on foot, horseback and bicycle but there may also be vehicular rights which have not been recorded on the map. Maps can be amended if evidence of missing rights of way is discovered, or to correct errors in previously recorded information.

THE DEFINITIVE STATEMENT

Each map is accompanied by a statement which may include descriptions of the rights of way. If the statement defines the position or width of a right of way shown on the map, then that information is conclusive evidence unless there has been a legally authorised change. If the statement contains any limitations or conditions attached to the public's rights, then that too is conclusive evidence. As with the definitive map, there may also be unrecorded limitations or conditions on the public's rights. Definitive statements can also be amended if missing evidence is discovered, or to correct errors in previously recorded information.

HOW CAN I FIND OUT WHICH WAYS ARE INCLUDED ON THE DEFINITIVE MAP?

The definitive map and statement and amending orders are available at local authority offices for the public to inspect free of charge at reasonable hours. Each district council has available for inspection copies of that part of the map, statement and orders for its area. Also parish councils normally have copies for their area. Public libraries may also have copies of definitive maps and statements. The actual definitive map (paper copy) can be viewed at our office in Winckley House, Cross Street, Preston. Although we will help without prior notice, we would prefer that you make an appointment by phoning our general reception number (01772 534709)

View and query the Public Rights of Way network in Lancashire online at
MARIO - Maps & Related Information Online , Lancashire County Council's interactive mapping site.

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