About Public Rights of Way

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What is a Public Right of Way?

A Public Right of Way (PROW) is a highway over which the public have a right to pass and repass.

The right determines the type of way and what can be used on them. These rights are recorded on the definitive map and statement.

Types of Public Rights of Way

PROWs fall into 4 categories:

  • Footpaths
  • Bridleways
  • Restricted Byways (RB)
  • Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT)

Footpath

Right of way for walkers, including wheelchair users and those pushing prams.

Bicycles shouldn't be ridden, carried or pushed.

Bridleway

A footpath that allows cyclists and horse riding.

Restricted Byway (RB)

A bridleway that also allows horse drawn vehicles.

Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT)

An RB that allows mechanically propelled vehicles.

Always follow the Countryside Code when using the rights of way in the area.

How we manage PROWs in Barnet

London Borough of Barnet is the statutory highway authority.

We manage 37 km of PROWs in Barnet. These can be found in our towns, parks and greenspaces.

These rights of way are further complimented by a vast network of permissive paths. Together, they form a series of promoted routes including the:

  • London Loop
  • Dollis Valley Greenwalk
  • Pymmes Brook Trail
  • Capital Ring (an additional 31 km of paths)

There are also 36 km of urban footpaths in Barnet, that provide important walking links to schools, shops and public transport hubs.

Developers

PROW are highways established in law and should be viewed as a positive benefit to development schemes.

A PROW can add to the quality of life and to the amenity of an area.

Developers should consider how:

  • the PROW network is affected by their proposal
  • any impact of the development can be minimised
  • the network can be enhanced at a very early stage

If the route of a PROW is to be physically affected by the development, including permitted development, you must apply for a diversion or extinguishment under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as soon as possible.

Development shouldn't start until the diversion or extinguishment has been completed.

Report a problem

To report a problem or request further information regarding the rights of way network within Barnet, go to the highway portal