Reporting a footpath problem.
basil | 8/4/2006 | 10:32 amFootpath Problem Reporting.
When encountering a footpath problem you really should make an attempt to complain to the relevant authority, this usually is the County Council in the area of fault.
In Worcestershire, Countryside Services look after all rights of way. Your complaints should be addressed to them.
When making a complaint make sure all relevant information is included.
First include an accurate description of problem encountered. Next location of footpath, this should be Parish, Village or District in area you are walking. Next, grid reference would be useful; although not essential will make location much easier.
If you are making a telephone complaint, the footpath officer will try to assist in locating your problem, from what you are able to tell him, but as there are 15700 paths covering 4540 Kilometres in Worcestershire alone, this could be difficult.
All footpaths have an allocated number, found on the definitive map; (the County Council will have a copy for you to view.)
The Countryside Services are usually inundated with complaints and your problem will definitely not be attended to immediately, but depending on priority may possibly be included when they next have a maintenance session in your area, this may be a year or two away.
An easier way to report a problem would be to contact the area Parish Council Clerk and ask to forward your complaint to the Parish Council member with responsibility for footpaths.
Parish Councils have differing views regarding footpaths; some villages have excellent paths but most will have problems.
Some Parishes have a Parish Footpath Warden and may be able to help you directly.





