Bury is covered by a network of 650 individual public rights of way, totalling 310 kilometres in length. The majority of these routes are public footpaths (on which the public has right of access on foot only) but there are also bridleways (on foot, cycle and horse) and byways (foot, cycle, horse and motorised vehicle).
The Local Authority has powers of enforcement to ensure that the public rights of way network is not restricted by illegal obstructions. The Authority can require the relevant person or organisation to remove such items as walls, fences, locked gates, building materials, vehicles, overhanging vegetation or any other object or structure blocking the public's access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find out if the route of a public right of way has been changed legally?
The route of the public right of way may have been legally altered and recorded on the definitive map and statement. If you want to report a public right of way that you think has been changed please contact Customer Services.
Who is responsible for gates leading to public rights of way?
Generally gates are the responsibility of the landowner.
Can I change or stop up the route of a path on my land?
Yes, there is a formal application procedure, with strict criteria which need to be met and a charge is made for the process. There is no guarantee of success as objections are often raised by user groups and individuals. Please contact Customer Services with your details and an officer will contact you
Can bulls be kept in a field where there is a public right of way through the field?
A: No - If the bull is older than 10 months old, or if it is of a dairy breed mixed with cows, then it cannot be kept in a field with a public right of way through it.
There is an aggressive horse or other animal in a field with a public right of way through it, can something be done about this?
A prosecution can be brought against a farmer when they knowingly place a dangerous animal in a field with a public right of way. Please report any incidents to Customer Services.
If you wish to report something you believe to be an illegal obstruction on a Public Right of Way within the Borough please contact:
Customer Services
Environment & Development Services
Lester House, 21 Broad Street, Bury, BL9 0AW
Phone: 0161 253 5353
Fax: 0161 253 5851
