Issue - meetings

To consider a report on the development of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) (2011-2026) within the context of the Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3).

The Committee received a report which gave an update on the development of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) (2001-2026) within the context of the Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3).

The new ROWIP for the Cheshire East Borough would focus on the post-LGR needs for the new Borough.  It was a statutory requirement that the ROWIP be fully integrated with LTP3.  The national transport goals enshrined in LTP3 were as follows:

• reducing carbon emissions
• supporting economic growth
• promoting equality of opportunity
• contributing to better safety, security and health and
• improving quality of life and a healthy natural environment

Natural England had published a good practice note on ROWIP and LTP3 integration.  The document promoted the optimisation of the role that rights of way could play in the wider transport system and highlighted the benefits of the integration of the two plans:-

• a more holistic approach to transport, addressing the rights of way network as an integral part of urban and rural transport systems;
• strengthening of the long term sustainability of the rights of way network as its role in the wider transport network is recognised;
• securing more direct and integrated funding and delivery;
• encouragement of new ways of working with internal and external partners including local access forums;
• promoting a shift to ‘active travel’ in which walking and riding are considered as a choice of transport modes;
• advantage in delivering positive benefits for people and the natural environment – a more active lifestyle in a greener, healthier, low carbon, quieter and safer environment.

The timetable and project plan for the development of the ROWIP was being drawn up to align with those of the LTP3 project.  A steering group was being established to monitor the development of the ROWIP and its integration with LTP3.  Representatives from the Public Rights of Way Committee would be part of the Steering Group.  The Committee would receive regular updates on the progress with the ROWIP.

RESOLVED:

That the report be noted.