Apply for a temporary closure

Rights of way may be closed for works or to protect public safety

Rights of way must not be closed or their use restricted without our consent, please read our guidance notes.

If you are intending to undertake any activity that might affect a public right of way please contact us. There is a charge for this service.

This application form is for closures to the rights of way network only. For roads or footway closures please apply using the Temporary Traffic Regulation Order / Notice application form

Current closures
Reasons for closures

A public right of way may need a temporary closure if there is:

  • work taking place on or near the route
  • a potential danger to the public
  • likelihood of serious damage to the route
  • an event, like a sporting or social event on the route
Length of closures

Rights of way can be closed for an initial period of up to six months, although the Secretary of State for Transport can approve an extension. Please contact us as early as possible if you require an extension.

There is a charge for extensions to temporary closure orders.

Your responsibilities

You must:

  • agree the period of closure
  • agree the extent of the path affected
  • make alternative arrangements for the public (such as providing an alternative route) where possible
  • agree arrangements to reinstatement the path
  • complete all parts of the application form
  • notify anyone who uses the path to access adjacent property
  • provide a contact name and number to display on notices or give to the public
  • minimise disruption caused to local users
  • display and maintain notices at each end of the path until the works are complete
If notices are not displayed on site during the closure, we reserve the right to replace them and charge for our time

When the work is complete:

  • open the path as soon as possible
  • remove notices
  • reinstate the path to an agreed standard
  • inform us that the path is open. You are responsible for the cost of reinstatement
Current charges

Temporary Closure Orders: £2,265

Temporary Closure Notices (5 days only): £2,265

Temporary Closure Notices (21 days only): £775

Temporary Closure Orders (extensions): Current charge - £775

Temporary Closure Orders (Special event): £2,265

In addition to the above charges applicants must also cover the cost of advertising the closure in the local press. This may be in the region of £200 per closure.

If your application is approved, you will be sent an invoice which must be paid prior to any closure notices being issued.

Apply for a temporary closure