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Is the urban right of way in need of some resuscitation ?

There is an estimated 140,000 miles of UK rights of way – a valuable national treasure.

Whilst much of the countryside paths we enjoy have existed from century to century (albeit currently in need of some tender loving care) the urban network has been heavily truncated by modern development and much lies under concrete and tarmac.

Is it time to resurrect some of it under the name of ‘green’ routes that allow more sustainable travel by foot or cycle, cut out vehicle rat-runs, eliminate some pavement parking, and improve the quality of life for those who live on them ?

Some councils have made a knee-jerk reaction to the coronavirus by creating traffic-free routes. Some have been successful – others have provided no benefit whatsoever.

Even when coronavirus is overcome, the greater problem of climate change will remain and dictate our thinking for years to come.