Tuesday, July 14 2009
Natural England, the independent body dedicated to promoting a healthy natural environment, has selected a Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) developed by JMP Consultants as an example of best practice.
The plan, commissioned by Warrington Borough Council, assesses all rights of way within the borough, including footpaths, cycle tracks, bridleways and restricted byways while the statement of action identifies the best way to develop and manage the network in the future.
In nominating it as an example of best practice, Natural England made specific reference to JMP’s consultation work, the policy review undertaken, its clear action plan and the close alignment between the ROWIP and Warrington’s Local Transport Plan (LTP2).
JMP’s report highlighted the need for better publicity and marketing of routes, physical improvements and more regular maintenance regimes, the introduction of new routes and improved partnership working between the council and external organisations. Indicative costs and timescales of these improvements were also outlined.