'Funding for rights of way is relatively small compared to the benefits they can bring'

The boss of Britain’s biggest walkers’ campaign group will today see at first hand the problems caused by cuts to rights of way staff.

Ramblers’ chief executive Tom Franklin will join walking enthusiasts to protest against Bolton Council’s axing of its entire rights of way team.

Two experienced members of staff were made redundant earlier this month, leaving the authority with no dedicated staff.

Mr Franklin is walking with a group through Moses Gate Country Park to see how damaging the cuts will be to local footpaths.

The Ramblers have joined the Institute of Public Rights of Way and Access Management, which represents professional staff in the field, in highlighting the effects of the cutbacks and the ability of the public to enjoy the great outdoors. The two bodies are urging Bolton Council to reverse the decision.

Mr Franklin said: “We know that times are tough and money is tight which is why our volunteers are happy to work in partnership with the council to keep footpaths open but unpaid helpers can only do so much.

“Such drastic cuts will not only leave Bolton with no dedicated staff to manage the footpath network but without staff to provide expertise, training and co-ordination, volunteers will be unable to help too.

“Funding for rights of way is relatively small compared to the benefits they can bring and we are urging Bolton Council to reconsider this decision.”

Marilyn Meeks, president of IPROW, said: “I fully endorse Tom’s comments and would like to add that those working in rights of way and access do not see their roles as just jobs but are dedicated people who give many hours above and beyond their core responsibility.

“This isn’t a role that you can just walk into without training and being fully versed about the various legislation within a short time.

“Local authorities would find themselves embroiled in litigation on a regular basis not just from those exercising their rights but from those who’s land rights of way and access is crossed.”