Routes and rights of way
London has a comprehensive network of Public Rights of Way such as footpaths and bridleways. This network serves to link many of the green spaces across the capital and offers walkers, cyclists, horse riders and those with mobility problems a range of recreational options.
Incorporated within this network are a number of defined walking routes such as the Capital Ring, Green Chain, London Loop, Lee Valley Walk, Jubilee Walkway and the Thames Path National Trail. These defined routes cover in excess of 500 km in the capital and offer an important recreational resource to Londoners and tourists alike.
All 20 Outer London Boroughs have a statutory duty to deliver Rights of Way Improvement Plans (ROWIPs) that highlight the local authorities’ intentions to better manage and integrate rights of way and green space locally. These plans should nest closely with Open Space Strategies within the boroughs.
Natural England provides guidance to local authorities on access, to ensure the published plans for improving parks, open spaces and rights of way are delivered and successfully connect people to the natural environment in their neighbourhoods, while making improvements to the quality of natural green space in London.
Current Projects and Initiatives
| Delivery of ROWIPS | |
|---|---|
| Summary description | Boroughs have a statutory duty to deliver Rights of Way Improvement Plans (ROWIPs) that highlight the local authorities’ intentions to better manage and integrate rights of way and green space locally. These plans should nest closely with Open Space Strategies within the boroughs. |
| Latest update/progress | Natural England continues to support local authorities in developing their ROWIPs. We have developed a ‘good practice guide’ on how to produce an effective ROWIP, together with continuing to advise local authorities on their draft documents. We now encourage local authorities to link their plans for walking and cycling developments in with Local Transport Plans. |
| Supporting documents from NE | Good Practice Guide: ROWIP |
| Further information/web-links | |
