Dorchester Transport Action Group (DTAG) has called on Dorset Council to turn its ambitious vision for public rights of way into a reality, with a fully connected network of walking, wheeling and cycling routes across the county.
In its response to Dorset Council’s draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan consultation, which closed on 12 October, DTAG strongly supported the aim of creating a world-class network making the most of Dorset’s outstanding countryside and coastline. But the group says the priority must be to complete routes, rather than leave them unfinished with gaps that prevent people from using them for everyday journeys.
Complete the routes, connect the communities
DTAG wants Dorset Council to commit to delivering approved routes within agreed timescales, using path creation orders where negotiations with landowners have failed. Projects such as the West Dorset Railways, North Dorset Trailway and other Greenways have the potential to connect communities, but many remain incomplete
A connected network would offer much more than opportunities for leisure and tourism. It would give people safer, more direct ways to walk, wheel or cycle to work, school and local services, while bringing benefits for physical and mental health, the local economy and the environment.
Put people and communities first
DTAG also stressed the importance of accessibility and inclusion, particularly for people with mobility difficulties and those without access to a car. Local volunteer groups, including Transport Action Groups and Greenways groups, have a vital role in identifying routes, campaigning for improvements and supporting their development. The Council should work closely with these groups and local communities to agree priorities and maintain momentum
New housing developments must also provide opportunities for better active travel. In particular, if the proposed North Dorchester Garden Community goes ahead, it should include safe, high-quality routes connecting the development with Dorchester, Charminster, Stinsford and Kingston Maurward.
Turn ambition into action
DTAG’s response calls for a clear monitoring framework, with measurable indicators and regular reporting, so the public can see whether the plan is delivering its promises. It also supports Dorset Greenways Alliance’s call for the Council to improve its Active Travel Capability rating, helping to increase the potential for active travel funding.
DTAG believes that a well-connected rights of way network is essential to healthier, greener and more accessible communities. The challenge now is for Dorset Council to turn its vision into completed routes that people can rely on.
You can use this link to read the council’s draft plan. Too late now to submit a response, but DTAG will be keeping an eye on what happens next and updating you on our website. And you can read DTAG’s full response to the consultation here.