County calls for members to join countryside forum
People and organisations across Warwickshire, Solihull and Coventry are being invited to join a forum to advise on public rights of way and access to the countryside.
The body is a joint local access forum which was set up following the Countryside and Rights of Way Act. The forum advises the local authorities on improving access to the local countryside, including the new ‘right to roam’ and the development and implementation of Rights of Way Improvement Plans.
Cllr Martin Heatley, Warwickshire County Council Portfolio holder for Environment said:
“This is an important body which is helping us to meet the aspirations of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act and give us a network of country paths fit for the 21st Century”.
“We need to gather a wide range of experience and interests, and are particularly looking for people with an interest in horse riding and water based recreation as well as those involved in land management, tourism and nature conservation.”
He added, “Members with experience in more than one category will be particularly valuable”.
Stuart Ikeringill, countryside recreation manager at Warwickshire County Council, said “The forum plays an important role in offering strategic advice and comment to the three local councils and Natural England on their new responsibilities under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act”.
“Its aim is to make the countryside more accessible and enjoyable for all, looking at social, economic and environmental interests, and importantly, respecting land management, wildlife and landscape.”
Meeting at least three times a year, the forum has between 17 and 22 members who stay in post for three years.
Anyone interested in joining should contact call for an Information Pack on 01926 413427 or download the information @ http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/laf
The deadline for applications is 5th October 2007 and the next Forum meeting will be held on 29th November 2007 in Warwick at 7.00pm.