Archived decisions

Contact: Andrew Smith, ext 6003 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage approves the draft policy regarding the use and management of motor vehicles on rights of way and unsurfaced roads in the countryside. Councillor Kendal, Executive Member for Environment, has been consulted and supports the proposed policy

2. Reason

2.1 This decision supports the Hampshire County Council Corporate Priorities of;

· Hampshire safer and more secure for all

· Maximising wellbeing

· Enhancing our quality of place

through the provision of safer, more accessible routes to, and within, Hampshire's countryside.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Hampshire County Council has previously expressed a clear view on this issue. In 1998, the then Recreation and Heritage Committee declared its `total opposition to the use of green lanes by motor vehicles for recreational purposes'. An alternative course of action would have been to maintain this statement but without a further explanation how this would be implemented. This statement has not been changed or clarified since this time however it is difficult to demonstrate how it has influenced the work of the Council. On occasions this statement has been perceived to conflict with the Council's statutory duties as the surveying authority to ensure that all rights are legally and accurately recorded. A clear policy is needed therefore to help clarify the Council's roles and responsibilities and to ensure people understand how this will affect the work of the Council in practice.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member Consulted

None.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent

Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

..................................

Councillor Mrs. M. Snaith