Pedestrian gates provide good access for most path users, are less expensive than kissing gates, and can be designed to be self-closing.
Pedestrian gates should only be installed on footpaths and only when a gap is not feasible. Kissing gates are not as desirable as they are less accessible than pedestrian gates although, generally, landowners feel kissing gates allow for safer stock control.
- Landowners are responsible for the maintenance of, and are liable for, any gates on public rights of way over their land.
- The county council is obliged to provide at least 25% of the costs of replacing or repairing gates on public rights of way. It does this by providing standard gates at a subsidised rate.
What is the task that local councils could carry out?
- Landowners are responsible for cutting back vegetation that encroaches on a path from the sides and above. The county council are asking Parish Councils, as part of the consultation, to tell them if they would consider being their ‘eyes and ears’ and manage liaison with local landowners over most rights of way issues. Take part in the consultation
- Installation or repair of a gate using the stile kit in collaboration with the landowners
- Landowners must seek authorisation from the county council before installing any new gates on public rights of way.
How could local councils go about it?
Volunteers or contractors can carry out these tasks in collaboration with landowners.
What are some of the things local councils should consider when considering or carrying out this task?
- Who owns the land?
- Have you got the right equipment?
- Think about how you’ll dispose of materials afterwards
- It’s best not to work in areas with underground pipes or cables overhead
- Presence of livestock – The presence of livestock doesn’t mean that you can’t carry out the work, but certain safety implications may apply – i.e. livestock may need to be removed if they pose a safety hazard.
What’s are the first steps?
- Find out who owns the land to discuss their responsibility and how the parish council can help and then check for underground pipes and cables before you commence work.
- Carry out a pre-work site risk assessment
- Read the advice on manual handling and the use of hand and power tools
- Carry out a risk assessment if you plan to use hand tools, hedge trimmers or strimmers – Example Risk Assessment – hand tools, Example Risk Assessment – hedge trimmers, Example – Risk Assessment Strimmers
- Read the hazards guidance notes and top safety tips for rights of way tasks
- Contact the county council if you’re in any doubt
Who should I contact to get the ball rolling?
- Approach the Landowner in the first instance
- If you are in any doubt, or if you would like further advice, please do not hesitate to contact Staffordshire County Council via rightsofway@staffordshire.gov.uk