Restore Missing Footpaths in England and Wales
A walking charity is appealing for people to help restore more than 49,000 miles of footpaths that are absent from modern maps in England and Wales. The Ramblers organization emphasizes the time-sensitive nature of this initiative, as there are only five years remaining to gather the essential evidence needed to build and submit applications for restoration of these paths for future generations.
Volunteer Efforts and Findings
Earlier this year, thousands of volunteers actively participated in comparing current maps of England and Wales with two historic maps from 120 years ago. Utilizing the “Don’t Lose Your Way” online mapping tool, volunteers searched through 154,000 squares of 1km, uncovering an astonishing 49,138 miles of missing paths—nearly five times more than initial projections. However, four additional steps are necessary to secure the restoration of these paths.
Steps for Restoration
The steps required to save these paths involve:
- Prioritizing paths that provide the most benefits for the community.
- Researching individual paths to determine their potential for restoration.
- Building applications based on historical evidence.
The Ramblers charity is collaborating with volunteers and partner organizations to cultivate resources, thus enabling thousands of other volunteers nationwide to tackle these tasks. It is crucial to note that the British government mandates that applications for path restoration must be submitted by January 1, 2026. Following this deadline, the opportunity to reclaim and protect lost rights of way will no longer exist.
Impact of Restoration
Restoring these lost paths could potentially increase the path network in England and Wales by up to one-third. According to Jack Cornish, the project’s program manager, “The overwhelming response from the public to assist in identifying missing rights of way highlights the significant value our path network holds for many.” He adds, “By reinstating the most beneficial paths, we will not only preserve a part of our history but also enhance the existing network, thereby creating new and improved walking routes that allow more people to enjoy the great outdoors.”
Get Involved
For those interested in helping the cause, further information on how to contribute to the restoration of missing paths can be found on the Ramblers’ website.
