National Countryside Access Forum

Today saw the launch of the National Countryside Access Forum - the Countryside Agency's advisory body on access to the countryside and related issues.

Representatives of a wide range of organisations and independent experts will, in the next two years, be meeting to give the Agency the benefit of their views on access to the English countryside. Pam Warhurst, chairman of the Forum and deputy chairman of the Countryside Agency, said "I am thrilled by the positive attitude of those who participated today. It is enormously helpful for the Countryside Agency to be able to draw on the wisdom and diverse experience of the Forum members. I am convinced that together, through our advice, the Agency will be better able to achieve its goal of more and better access that respects the other vital interests in the countryside."

During its first year, the Forum will concentrate on the preparation for legislation providing a right of access to open countryside and improvements to rights of way. After agreeing terms of reference, way of working and a programme for the year ahead, the Forum discussed the types of land to which access will be provided and preparation for mapping access land. "Many groups and individuals have an interest in access to the countryside, so we will ensure the Forum's work is widely discussed and publicised. All members of the Forum will need to network with a wide range of groups and individuals to ensure that this is achieved." concluded Pam Warhurst.