Definitive Map 2026 “cut off date” for historic paths – DEFRA Update

Stakeholder Working Group

Update from DEFRA, 17 May 2022

In February we communicated our decision to repeal the 2026 cut-off date, and to proceed with the right to apply and cost recovery statutory instruments.

In addition, we can now also confirm that we are in a position to proceed with the remaining statutory instruments which will mean that we can implement the full package of reforms, not related to the cut-off date, and bring into force the improvements to rights of way processes originally envisaged under the Deregulation Act 2015.

See Backgorund page for info https://southsomersetbridlewaysassociation.co.uk/background

Horse Riders Enjoy New Priority Status

The Highway Code has changed from 29th January 2022.

When driving, you should now pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space. Check the changes, let’s keep each other safe.

Please remember to wear hi-vis clothing and report any bad driving to the BHS website.

Find out more about the changes https://www.gov.uk/…/the-highway-code-8-changes-you…

Restricted byways and bridleway at Babcary

A huge thank you to Somerset Council and our friend at Mendip Bridleways and Byways Association for organising the surface improvements of Westover lane (light green line on the map below) and Lydford Lane (dark green line). They are now looking great and accessible again for riders, cyclists and walkers. Bollards are due to be installed on the bridleway section of Lydford lane in Babcary to prevent new damage by 4×4 vehicles. Until the work can be done, part of the path will be blocked to protect the condition of the route. A suitable gap will be left to allow access for legal Rights of Way users.

Council to repair and reopen bridleway at Kingswood

The SSBA recently worked with South Somerset County Council with regards to issues along some of our bridleways. The responce we received is below. Thank you to those who brought the issues to our attention and to the Rights of Way Area Wardens for their help in keeping these vital routes open.

An update following my visit to Kingswood Farm last week. I have spoken to the landowner at Kingswood about us having reports that riders were being turned away from his farm and yes the Bridleway is still closed at the junction of Y 10/29 & Y 10/27 to Marsh Farm. 

We are going to carry our works along the bridleway from Common Lane to the Dorset border beyond Whitevine Farm which I will list below. (I have the works scheduled in for this month)
Where the B/W starts at common lane there will be a new bridleway gate installed beside the cattle grid.

Where the locked gate is there is now a wide gap this will remain but there will be a section of post and rail fence alongside the stream. Any other gates would have new easy opening arms fitted.

Going towards Whitevine Farm there has been a small gate fitted by the landowner but there is a ditch close to it, the ditch will be piped and a proper B/W gate will be installed the works here will be carried out by the landowner of Whitevine Farm.

Works to the gates going to Marsh Farm will not be done whilst it is under a closure notice, [we] will update you with the situation regarding the dangerous bridge and this closure.