Open Access Arrives in the Chilterns (Contributed)

AS from today, Monday October 31, the general public have greater rights to explore the Chilterns countryside.

The Open Access rights will allow people to walk and enjoy informal recreation in designated areas, without having to stick to public rights of way. People will be able to enjoy activities such as sightseeing, picnicking, climbing, birdwatching and running. However the new system isn?t a general right to walk everywhere or undertake any activity. Access land can only be entered on foot, dogs must be kept on a lead between March and July, and many activities such as cycling or horse-riding aren?t allowed.

Annette Venters, Strategic Access Officer for the Chiltern Conservation Board said:
?The new Rights provide opportunities to explore some of the best Chilterns countryside, including chalk downland and Common Land. The access authorities are working hard to improve access and information at some of these sites?.

The Chilterns Conservation Board are expecting a big turnout at their annual Access Conference, with the main theme this year being ?Open Access, Making it Work?. The one-day Conference, on Wednesday 2nd November will be looking at the implementation of Open Access in the Chilterns and at the opportunities arising from the Rights of Way Improvement Plans in the region.

To celebrate the arrival of the new Open Access Rights a number of Rambling Groups are organising walks on new access land.
To find out where the new Open Access areas are in the Chilterns and to check on your new Rights and Responsibilities see www.openaccess.gov.uk