Lost Rights of Way: Registration Deadline Removed

It has been reported that DEFRA are to remove the 1st January 2026 deadline for members of the public to apply to register rights of way that are not featured on definitive maps. The right was introduced by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, and it is estimated that so far 41,000 miles of paths had been identified.

Within the reports there is also said to be a new landowner 'right to apply' to divert or extinguish rights of way in certain circumstances. It is unclear how this will amend or enhance existing provisions, and we await an announcement from DEFRA and the publication of the new regulations.