A New Look at Old Paths
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush
Prepared by the Lower Windrush Valley Project
August 2007
Executive Summary
1. The Lower Windrush Valley is situated to the south east of Witney, in West Oxfordshire, an area that has been extensively modified by mineral extraction for more than 60 years. With extraction set to continue for many years to come, the Lower Windrush Valley Project (LWVP) was established by Oxfordshire County Council to create and implement an environmental strategy for the future of this area. Working closely with mineral operators, landowners and the local community, the LWVP co-ordinates a range of initiatives that aim to strengthen the landscape, protect and enhance biodiversity and improve public access.
2. Improving access to the countryside has always been one of the LWVP’s three principal objectives. Since the launch of the project in 2001 the focus has been on opening up new access along the Windrush Path and at Standlake Common Nature Reserve, whilst also investigating the potential for a new bridge across the River Thames at Bablock Hythe.
3. In 2005, when the LWVP steering group was discussing its future objectives it was clear that although the LWVP was committed to working on access initiatives, little research had been done to objectively assess the need for access improvements or to determine whether there were realistic opportunities to achieve significant benefits. The original Lower Windrush Valley Report produced in 1999 had made many recommendations for specific improvements but this was a mainly desk based study and so the feasibility of proposals was not tested.
4. It was decided that a detailed scoping study should be undertaken and in 2006, the LWVP commissioned Land Access Ltd to undertake a study that would provide a balanced assessment of the needs of users, the issues affecting landowners/managers and the opportunities for both enhancing the existing network and creating new access. The study involved an audit of the existing supply, demand and opportunities for improving access in the Lower Windrush Valley. It went on to identify potential improvements, which were then researched in enough detail to show they offered realistic opportunities to achieve results and to give a clear indication of the resources required to deliver them.
5. Further research was undertaken by the LWVP during 2007 to complete the access audit and all of the available information has been put together in this document to create an evidence base that will inform the development of a Lower Windrush Valley Access Strategy
6. The supply audit was undertaken to find out more about current access provision by looking at existing rights of way, the wider highway network, access routes secured through planning or land management schemes, the provision of accessible green space, visitor attractions, the availability of information, signage, visitor facilities and public transport. The findings confirmed that improvements were needed that would benefit both residents and visitors.
7. The demand audit was undertaken to find out more about how the existing public access identified in the supply audit was being used and to assess how it might be used in the future. Although no specific figures were available that directly showed current usage, census figures and information from local businesses was collated to help build up a clearer understanding of both current demand and potential demand. Evidence and opinions were also gathered from residents and user groups. The findings of the demand audit demonstrated that a significant number of people would benefit from access improvements and the economic welfare of the valley was also shown to be dependent on access provision.
8. The policy audit was undertaken to show how the development of an access strategy would meet the objectives of partner organisations. This identified policies of relevance to improving the path network such as the Rights of Way Improvement Plan, Local Transport Plan and Thames Path National Trail Management Strategy. Planning Policies such as the Minerals & Waste Local Plan and West Oxfordshire Local Plan and policies from other partners such as Natural England and the Environment Agency were also key to the delivery of improvements.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush Executive Summary
9. A strong policy framework for improving countryside access was found within many partner organisations, which suggested a high level of support for the development of an access strategy for the Lower Windrush Valley.
10. The resource audit was undertaken to find out more about the current and potential resources available to implement any proposed improvements. Three essential types of resource were identified, revenue funding to employ staff, capital funding to undertake specific works and the support of landowners/land managers who in effect hold the key to the most important resource, the countryside that people would like to access. The findings showed that whilst many partner organisations were involved in access work in the Lower Windrush Valley, most were overstretched and had little spare capacity. It was clear that additional resources would be required to implement improvements but it was also noted that the LWVP was well placed to benefit from opportunities in planning agreements and grant funding eg. Landfill Tax.
11. The key issues arising from the access audit were presented in a SWOT analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Overall, the access audit clearly showed there were many issues that could be addressed in order to improve countryside access in the valley and that there was a desire amongst local people, businesses and partner organisations to see improvements implemented.
12. During the audit many ideas for access improvements were generated and the next stage of the study involved working up a number of realistic proposals that would establish whether significant benefits could be delivered if more resources were made available. 25 potential improvements were selected to be worked up in detail and together formed a portfolio of projects that were thought to be achievable and if implemented would address the needs and demands identified in the access audit in a meaningful way. The specific works put forward aimed to address the four action points that arose out of the audit.
13. Theme One: Access to waterside. The access audit provided supporting evidence for an opinion already widely held by policy makers, that local people have a particularly strong desire to access the rivers and lakes within the valley. Potential improvements put forward to address this theme included, promoting the existing resource more widely including recording the Windrush Path on Ordnance Survey maps, stronger planning policies to ensure all applications for development offer opportunities for securing access to water and proposals to improve “access for all” at Witney Lake and Standlake Common Nature Reserve.
14. Theme Two: Improvements to the bridleway network. The access audit suggested that the Lower Windrush Valley has the potential to be at the hub of an excellent network of bridleways and quiet roads that could be enjoyed by all users. This potential would be unlocked if a small number of significant improvements were made that overcome the major barriers by providing safe road or river crossings and that fill in the missing links by upgrading existing footpaths to bridleway status or securing new sections of bridleway.
15. The potential improvements put forward to address this theme included upgrading six existing footpaths (c.9km) to bridleway status and the creation of six entirely new sections of bridleway (c.6km) that would effectively complete the network. The other major potential improvements within this theme related to the provision of new access across the River Thames, including a new crossing at Bablock Hythe for all users and one at Northmoor Lock for walkers and ‘mountain’ or ‘hybrid’ bike users. Reinstating a ferry service at Bablock Hythe was also suggested as alternative option to a bridge.
16. Theme Three: Improved road conditions for non-motorised users (NMUs). The audit highlighted how the wider road network has a vital role to play in linking footpaths and bridleways. Three specific sections of the A415 and B4449 were put forward as potential improvements, where a wider margin to accommodate walkers, cyclist and horse riders away from the main carriageway would have a significant impact on the network. The designation of Cogges/Tar Lane as a Quiet Lane was also put forward as a potential improvement.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush Executive Summary
17. Theme Four: Improved information, signage and promoted routes. The information gathered from local people and businesses suggested there was some uncertainty amongst residents and visitors about where they can enjoy access, what changes have taken place through mineral working and routes of individual paths. In particular, accommodation providers and other visitor service businesses highlighted the importance of good paths for their business, and therefore to the local economy. The increased provision of information, signage and promoted routes, particularly linked to the local communities, was put forward as an achievable improvement that would maximize the value of the existing access resource.
18. A framework was developed to assess and validate the potential importance of the proposed improvements, which was guided by the priorities, opportunities and constraints identified in the County Council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan and the Local Transport Plan. This analysis involved a spreadsheet approach to assessing the value of individual improvements by assigning scores for each of the following factors; connectivity, catchment, strategic importance, amenity, utility, link to ROWIP, potential and negative factors against. The analysis proved to be a useful exercise in terms of questioning the validity of proposals and the weaknesses or limitations of proposals to deliver against key policy objectives.
19. The evidence base produced clearly showed that whilst there was a demonstrable need and desire for countryside access to be improved and a strong policy framework to support further investment in making improvements, additional resources would have to be found to develop and implement them. The findings highlighted the considerable amount of staff time that would be required to implement the proposed improvements and suggested a Project Officer would need to be in post for a minimum of three years to achieve significant benefits
20. Increasing staff resources within the LWVP was also shown to be a key factor in securing substantial grants for capital works. The resource audit confirmed that the LWVP was well placed to benefit from a number of funding sources but the limiting factor was the officer time needed to work up proposals and make grant applications.
21. With both the Land Access Study and further research undertaken by the LWVP now completed, the next step will be to present the findings to a wide range of stakeholders and secure support for developing a partnership that will be vital element of the access strategy.
22. The priority will then be to secure funding for a Project Officer post that will increase the staff capacity within the existing LWVP structure so that benefits can be delivered on the ground. It is anticipated that external funding sources will only offer short term funding, however, the LWVP will need the services of a second Project Officer beyond this and so all opportunities for maintaining this post would also need to be explored in the medium to long term.
23. The Land Access Study concluded that, “The Lower Windrush Valley has the potential to offer excellent countryside access that will benefit local people, visitors and the local economy. However, realising that potential relies on a number of key improvements being delivered, which will require additional staff time to fund, administer and implement”. With a strong evidence base now available to support further investment in improving countryside access, the challenge for the LWVP will be to realise that potential.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush Executive Summary
A New Look at Old Paths: Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush
Contents
1: Lower Windrush Valley Project…………………………………………………. 1 The study area………………………………………………………….. 1 Development of an after use strategy………………………………… 1 The Lower Windrush Valley Project………………………………….. 1 2: Developing a LWV Access Strategy……………………………………………. 4 The need for further research…………………………………………. 4 The Land Access Study………………………………………………… 4 Taking forward the knowledge base…………………………..………. 4 3: Supply Audit……………………………………………………………………….. 5 Definitive rights of way network ……………………………………….. 5 Minor road network…………………………………….……………….. 8 Cycle and bridle routes.………………………………………………… 8 Accessible natural greenspace……………………………………….. 8 Access and mineral working…………………………………………… 11 Other access designations or schemes………………………………. 12 Attractions and other places people may visit……………………….. 12 Sensitive sites where access may be restricted…………………….. 14 Information………………………………………………………………. 14 Visitor facilities…………………………………………………………… 16 Car parking………………………………………………………………. 16 Public transport………………………………………………………….. 16 4: Demand Audit……………………………………………………………………… 17 Residents…………………………………………………………………. 17 Visitors……………………………………………………………………. 19 User groups………………………………………………………………. 20 Businesses supplying services………………………………………… 20 5: Policy Audit………………………………………………………………………… 23 Oxfordshire County Council……………………………………………. 23 West Oxfordshire District Council……………………………………... 24 Natural England…………………………………………………………. 24 Environment Agency……………………………………………………. 24 Thames Path National Trail…………………………………………….. 25 6: Resource Audit…………………………………………………………………….. 26 Current resources within Oxfordshire County Council……………….. 26 Current resources within partner organisations………………………. 27 Landowners / Land Managers………………………………………….. 28 Potential sources of revenue and capital funding……………………. 29
7: Audit Analysis……………………………………………………………………… 31 8: Potential Improvements…………………………………………………………. 32 Theme One: Access to waterside…………………………………….. 32 Theme Two: Improvements to the bridleway network……………… 33 Theme Three: Improved road conditions for non-motorised users.. 33 Theme Four: Improved information, signage & promoted routes…. 34 9: Framework Analysis……………………………………………………………… 36 10: The Next Step -Towards an Access Strategy…………………………………. 37
Figures: Supply Audit: Figure 1: Existing rights of way network………………………………………… 3 Figure 2: Changes to the rights of way network due to mineral working…… 5 Figure 3: Access to former mineral sites……………………………………….. 6 Figure 4: Access to rivers………………………………………………………… 7 Demand Audit: Figure 5: Parishes that contribute to the local population……………………. 9 Figure 6: Accommodation providers……………………………………………. 12 Audit Analysis: Figure 7: Audit SWOT analysis………………………………………………….. 21 Framework Analysis: Figure 8: Example of proposal assessed using framework analysis………… 25
Maps: Lower Windrush Valley Project Map 1: Lower Windrush Valley - Oxfordshire Context…...... 2 Map 2: Lower Windrush Valley project area…………………………………… 3 Supply Audit Map 3: Existing access currently available within the Lower Windrush Valley 6 Map 4: Significant barriers and disjunction on the existing path network……. 7 Map 5: Accessible natural greenspace………………………………………….. 9 Map 6: Access and minerals……………………………………………………… 13 Map 7: Places of interest, visitor facilities, information and transport………... 15 Demand Audit Map 8: Parishes that contribute to the local population……………………….. 18 Map 9: Businesses supplying services…………………………………………. 21 Potential Improvements Map 10: Potential improvements ……………………………………………….. 35
1. The Lower Windrush Valley Project
The Study Area
1.1 The Lower Windrush Valley is situated to the south east of Witney, in West Oxfordshire and includes the floodplain of the River Windrush from Witney to the River Thames at Newbridge. It is an area with a distinctly flat, semi enclosed landscape in which the River Windrush flows in two channels through lowland meadows bordered by hedgerows and willow pollards.
1.2 A significant feature of the valley is the extensive mineral extraction that has been undertaken for more than 60 years, which has transformed much of the riverside pasture into a mosaic of open water. In 2007, 50 lakes had been created and the area of open water will continue to increase as existing planning permissions permit future extraction for many years to come.
1.3 Seven parishes are at least partially within the Lower Windrush Valley. Ducklington, Hardwick, Northmoor, Standlake and Stanton Harcourt have their major settlements within the area, whilst Aston, Cote & Shifford and South Leigh have some land within the valley but most of their population lives just outside the area.
Development of an After Use Strategy
1.4 During the 1990s, a concerted effort was made by both the County and District Councils to develop a coordinated after use strategy for the Lower Windrush. This arose out of a growing awareness amongst Planning Officers that ad hoc planning decisions made in the past had resulted in a legacy of restored gravel pits that provided little benefit for local communities who had borne the impact of mineral extraction.
1.5 A broad strategy was first put forward in 1990 by West Oxfordshire District Council, which was followed in 1996 by Oxfordshire County Council’s Minerals and Waste Local Plan. Both documents provided the basis for a new policy framework that led to the production of the Lower Windrush Valley Report, the first comprehensive overview of the area’s environment, which was completed in 1999.
1.6 The Lower Windrush Valley Report was produced by BHWB Environmental Design and Planning on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) and the mineral operator, Smiths & Sons (Bletchington) Ltd. It collated all the existing information on the environment of the valley and made recommendations for a range of practical projects that could be undertaken to improve the landscape, biodiversity and public access of the area.
Lower Windrush Valley Project
1.7 With the Lower Windrush Valley Report providing clear objectives that could be implemented, OCC decided to seek core funding for a Project Officer that would work closely with mineral companies, waste management operators, landowners, local agencies, authorities and community groups to take forward the recommendations made in the report.
1.8 The key to securing the necessary funding came in 2001 when Smiths & Son’s (Bletchington) Ltd were granted planning permission for new gravel workings and agreed to make a financial commitment to the LWVP for a ten year period, enabling a wider funding package to be put together with the Environment Agency, English Nature and West Oxfordshire District Council.
1.9 By focusing on a relatively discrete area, the LWVP has been well placed to co-ordinate, implement and help manage a range of initiatives. Since its official launch in 2001, grants in excess of £155,000 have been secured for landscape, biodiversity and access projects.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 1 The Lower Windrush Valley Project
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 2 The Lower Windrush Valley Project
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 3 The Lower Windrush Valley Project
2. Developing a LWV Access Strategy
2.1 Alongside delivery of landscape and biodiversity objectives, improving countryside access is a key element of the work undertaken by the Lower Windrush Valley Project. Since the launch of the project in 2001, work has focused on the opening up of new access secured through planning agreements associated with the Windrush Path and the Standlake Common Nature Reserve. The LWVP has also invested considerable resources establishing a working group to look at the potential for a new bridge across the River Thames at Bablock Hythe.
The need for further research
2.2 In 2005, when the LWVP steering group was discussing its future objectives it was clear that although the LWVP was committed to undertaking countryside access initiatives, little research had been done to objectively assess the need for access improvements or to determine whether there were realistic opportunities to achieve significant benefits. The original Lower Windrush Valley Report produced in 1999 had made many recommendations for specific improvements but this was a largely desk based study so the implications and feasibility of the proposals was not fully tested.
2.3 It was decided that a detailed scoping study should be undertaken to investigate all aspects of countryside access in the Lower Windrush Valley. The aim was to produce a well researched, evidence base upon which an access strategy could then be developed that would be an effective tool for securing additional funding and active involvement of partner organisations.
The Land Access Study
2.4 In 2006, the LWVP commissioned Land Access Ltd to undertake a study that would provide a balanced assessment of the needs of users, the issues affecting landowners/managers and the opportunities for both enhancing the existing network and creating new access. The start of this study also coincided with the publication of the County Council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP), which set out aspirations for improving, modernizing and sustaining countryside access in Oxfordshire. The development of a LWV strategy offered an opportunity to build on the vision of the ROWIP and move forward with its implementation.
2.5 The study undertaken by Land Access was completed in March 2007. A computer based GIS mapping system was used to collate much of the data and a full report of the findings was presented to the LWVP steering group. The study provided information about the existing supply, demand and opportunities for improving access in the Lower Windrush Valley. It then went on to identify draft proposals for improvements that were researched in enough detail to show they offered realistic opportunities to achieve results and to give a clear indication of the resources required to deliver them.
2.6 The Land Access study included some consultation, which was designed to gain the views of a wide cross section of interested groups and individuals, however, within the budget constraints it was accepted that only a small sample size would be achieved. Potential improvements were discussed with landowners on the understanding that firm agreements to implement specific works would not be secured at such an early stage. The proposals put forward were presented as a draft list that highlighted opportunities and helped assess whether improvements could be delivered with existing resources or would need a substantial input of funds or more staff capacity with a dedicated project officer.
Taking forward the knowledge base
2.7 Further research was undertaken by the LWVP during the summer of 2007 to complete the access audit and all of the available information has now been put together to create an evidence basis that will form the basis for the development of a LWV Access Strategy.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 4 Developing an Access Strategy
3. Supply Audit
3.1 A supply audit was undertaken to find out more about the current provision for countryside access in the valley. This part of the study aimed to provide a better understanding of the existing rights of way, the wider highway network, access routes secured through planning or land management schemes, the provision of accessible greenspace, visitor attractions, availability of information, signage, visitor facilities and public transport.
Definitive ROW network
3.2 In purely quantitative terms, the Lower Windrush Valley was found to have a good network. With 60 paths covering 47km (28 miles), the area compares well with the national average. Further comparison with figures for Oxfordshire showed footpath provision was good, but bridleways and byways were well below the county average.
Lower Windrush Valley (28km2) Oxon England Number Length Density Density c/f Density Density 2 2 2 of paths (km) (m/km ) Oxon (%) (m/km ) (m/km ) Footpaths 45 37.88km 1353 127% 1061 1105
Bridleway 8 8.29km 296 72% 410 244 Restricted 1 1.19km 42 43% 96 45 Byways Byways 0 0km 0 0% 27 28
All Paths 60 47.36km 1691 94% 1595 1422
Figure 1: Existing rights of way network
Condition
3.3 Within the context of ‘fair wear and tear’, LWV paths were found to be in generally good condition. The County Council’s database showed that in 2006 11% of the LWV network was in unsatisfactory condition and complaints from users were few. This data relates to a range of factors including signage, stiles, gates, bridges, path surface, fencing and obstructions.
3.4 Whilst existing data from the OCC database indicated there were no major issues requiring immediate action, a detailed assessment of the condition of all paths within the valley was beyond the scope of the study and it was acknowledged that more work was needed to fully assess the current situation on the ground.
Disjunctions
3.5 Disjunctions are oddities in the network that influence its usefulness. Several disjunctions were identified in the LWV such as unusual changes in status at parish boundaries, including one path, which changed from a restricted byway to a footpath. These were thought to be the result of different parish councils interpreting recording instructions differently in the 1950s and 1960s. Definitive Map Modification Orders may offer a mechanism for correcting these mistakes where a significant improvement to the network could be achieved.
Barriers
3.6 Connectivity, or the way in which individual paths connect up with each other is a critical factor in determining the overall usefulness of any rights of way network. Barriers, such as rivers or busy roads, limit connectivity between paths and so can have a huge influence on how the network may be used, particularly by horse riders who have fewer routes available to them.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 5 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 6 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 7 Supply Audit
3.7 Assessment of the rights of way network in the LWV revealed many barriers that had a significant impact on connectivity. The River Thames, River Windrush, A40, A415 and B4449 were all identified as key features in the valley that break the network up into isolated groups of disconnected paths. It was suggested that improvements at a few key locations could deliver major benefits to the network, for example a crossing at Bablock Hythe.
3.8 Stiles, steps, dilapidated gates and narrow bridges also create barriers to access along individual paths, particularly for people with mobility problems. The County Council’s database show many structures on existing rights of way which could be removed or replaced.
Minor road network
3.9 Footpaths, bridleways and byways are all part of the wider highways network and minor roads can be a key element in creating a useful rights of way network. Unfortunately, modern traffic conditions and the priority now given to motorised traffic, mean that in many places these minor roads which are integral to the network no longer link paths together effectively.
3.10 The study identified c.30km of minor roads in the LWV. These minor roads were shown to be particularly important in fulfilling the potential of bridleways to produce a genuine network, suggesting that significant improvements could be made if safer and more enjoyable shared use of roads, for non-motorised users, could be achieved.
Cycle & bridle routes
3.11 In addition to the ROW network and wider highway network, cycle routes may be created to meet the needs of recreational riders who are looking for interesting circular routes that are safe for children and do not require a high level of fitness. These leisure routes differ from routes used by commuter cyclists who are able to use main roads or mountain bikers who will use unsurfaced bridleways.
3.12 Only one existing local, on-road, cycling route was identified in the LWV, between Ducklington and Witney. Sustrans are currently working on the development of two other routes that cross the LWV. The first from Eynsham to Witney is currently under negotiation, whilst the second, Witney via Cumnor to Oxford, is entirely dependent upon a suitable river crossing at Bablock Hythe. No off-road cycle or bridle routes were found in the LWV.
Accessible Greenspace
3.13 As a predominantly rural county, Oxfordshire has few country parks compared to other counties. Accessible green space such as a country park, offers an opportunity for people to access the countryside, which is quite different to that provided by public rights of way. Visitors tend to feel more welcome and able to enjoy the countryside on sites where access is actively encouraged, particularly if they are unused to being out in the countryside.
3.14 A study undertaken in 2007 for the Forestry Commission and Natural England provided clear evidence that there is an overall lack of accessible greenspace in Oxfordshire. The Accessible Natural Greenspace Standard (ANGSt model) was used as the basis for this study of counties in the south east and the results showed that 48% of households in Oxfordshire do not have any access to greenspace within the definitions of the ANGSt model. Oxfordshire was also the only county in the region with no households meeting all ANGSt requirements.
3.15 Witney Lake is the only significant area of accessible countryside within the Lower Windrush Valley. This 30 hectare country park owned by Witney Town Council (20ha within study area) has open access for walkers and disabled users but no access for cyclists or horse riders.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 8 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 9 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 10 Supply Audit
Access and mineral working
3.16 One of the most notable features of the valley is the extensive sand and gravel extraction, which has taken place since the 1950s and has resulted in a mosaic of lakes being created within the agricultural landscape. Mineral workings have inevitably had an effect on the rights of way network over the years resulting in some negative impacts and other positive gains.
3.17 The current Minerals Local Plan acknowledges that the Lower Windrush Valley has been subject to more intensive mineral extraction and waste disposal than any other part of Oxfordshire and includes specific policies that seek the establishment of new rights of way and areas of general public access.
3.18 In recent years, additional access provision in the form of linear paths or access to sites has been secured as a result of legally binding agreements made between the planning authority and developers during the planning application process. Such agreements are generally known as ‘section 106 agreements’ as they are authorised under this section of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The timescale for agreements is very variable; some clauses can be implemented within a few months of the agreement being signed but some will not be possible until mineral working or processing has finished.
3.19 The potential for negative impacts on existing rights of way caused by mineral extraction is also recognised. Policies state that all rights of way should be maintained and retained in situ. Although temporary diversions may be permitted to facilitate safe working, permanent diversions are subject to the same level of scrutiny that any other application would receive.
Changes to the Definitive Rights of Way network
3.20 In purely quantitative terms, an additional 5.72km of pubic paths are available to walkers as a result of mineral extraction. A further 6.95km has been secured but is not yet open.
Type of change to network No. paths Length (km) Permanent diversion 3 0.84km extra Temporary diversion currently in place 1 0.18km extra Additional linear access currently available 3 4.70km extra Additional linear access secured but not yet open 7 6.95km extra Net gain 10 12.7km
Figure 2: Changes to the rights of way network due to mineral working
Additional site specific access secured
3.21 4 sites covering 38ha were identified that currently offer access to the general public. Witney Lake and the Standlake Common Picnic Area are the only sites in the valley open to the public at all times. In addition, the Standlake Common Nature Reserve may be viewed from bird hides, which are accessed from public rights of way but do require a key to be purchased. The Linch Hill Leisure Park is a commercial site that is currently open to the public on an informal basis. There is no legal agreement associated with this site and so no certainty that it will continue to be open to the public in the future. A further 4 sites have agreements secured but will not be open until the sites have been restored following mineral extraction.
3.22 In real terms the actual area of land that has been secured for general public access through minerals planning agreements is less than 2% of the total area of land that has been granted planning permissions in the valley.
• Area of land with planning permissions granted to date = c.950ha (30% of study area) • Area of land with general public access = 52ha (5% of 950ha) • Area subject to a legal agreement to allow access = 20ha (2% of 950ha)
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 11 Supply Audit
Figure 3: Access to former mineral sites
Open to general public Area Basis on which access permitted Witney Lake 13.7ha Town Council own Country Park Standlake Common Nature Reserve n/a Section 106 (for unspecified time) Standlake Common Picnic Area 0.12ha Section 106 (for perpetuity) Total 13.82ha
Commercial site with public access Linch Hill Leisure Park 24ha Informal (no legal agreement)
Open to residents of Hardwick only Founders Lake 5.5ha Section 106 (for 15 years)
Agreements secured - site not open yet Rushy Common Nature Reserve (bird hide) 1ha Section 106 (for 25 years) Tar Farm Amenity Lakes 7.5ha Section 106 (for 25 years) Plant Site Amenity Lake 3ha Section 106 (for 25 years) Devils Quoits 2.5ha Section 106 (for 25 years) Total 14ha
Other access designations, schemes or agreements
3.23 A range of designations and schemes that enable additional access to the countryside are currently operating across the country and searches were made for additional land that allowed public access on this basis within the Lower Windrush Valley.
3.24 No records were found for access under any of the following schemes:
• Defra’s Countryside Stewardship Scheme • Forestry Commission’s Walkers Welcome • CROW Act 2000 Access Land: open country or common land • National Trust, Wildlife Trust or Woodland Trust sites
3.25 Any other permissive access to land in the valley was limited to informal arrangements between individuals and landowners.
Attractions & other places people may visit
3.26 Places of public interest are destinations or staging posts for recreational or every day journeys and a good path network should offer access to those places people wish to visit whilst on a walk or ride.
3.27 A wide range of places such as villages, pubs, churches, rivers, picnic sites, country parks and nature reserves were identified as places of public interest in the valley. The majority of these places are located on a right of way but access to them using the path network was less certain, for example opportunities to walk from one village to another are limited.
3.28 Access to the banks of the rivers was found to be generally good. A 6.2km section of the Thames Path National Trail from Newbridge to Bablock Hythe is within the study area and a further 4.2km is just outside the area following the southern bank from Newbridge to Shifford Lock. The River Thames provides a focus for the majority of published routes and much of the overnight accommodation in the valley is located near to it.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 12 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 13 Supply Audit
3.29 Although the existing definitive rights of way network provides limited access to the River Windrush, this provision has been increased in recent years by planning agreements that have opened new footpaths associated with the development of the Windrush Path. No further riverside access has been secured through planning agreements.
Figure 4: Access to Rivers
Access to river River Thames River Windrush Existing public right of way along riverbank 6.2km 0.75km Existing permissive path along riverbank 0 3.2km Places river is viewed from bridge crossing 2 16
3.30 The figures set out in the earlier section on mineral sites show that access to restored gravel pits is very limited with the majority of lakes owned by commercial businesses that manage them as private clubs or offer facilities for fee paying visitors. Witney Lake is the only site that currently has full public access for informal recreation. Three other sites have been secured through planning agreements which will enable access to the Devils Quoits at Dix Pit and two sites within the Gill Mill complex once these sites have been restored.
3.31 A significant proportion of existing public rights of way run along the boundary of restored mineral sites and so whilst there may be no public access within the site, there is the potential for the lake to be viewed and enjoyed from the path. There are currently 8.4km of existing public rights of way that could offer good views across restored lakes. However, in reality tree planting around the lakes, undertaken to screen the mineral workings or as part of the approved restoration plan, usually obscures views from outside the site and so this potential for public amenity is not realized. An additional 4km of new public rights of way with views across lakes have been secured through planning agreements that will be implemented post restoration. This includes 3km at the Gill Mill complex and1km along the east side of Dix Pit.
Sensitive sites where access may be restricted
3.32 In most circumstances access can be managed to serve the general public without causing damage or disturbance to other legitimate interests, however, where there is a real risk that access will cause unacceptable damage or disturbance access should be restricted.
3.33 Five Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs), three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and two nature reserves were identified in the study as being sites where the provision of additional public access would require careful thought before being proposed.
3.34 The study also acknowledged that private landowners have legitimate concerns that need to be balanced against any proposal for new access. It was noted that the many private clubs, syndicates, estates, businesses and commercial attractions in the valley may be reluctant to welcome public access if it brings with it problems of security, litter, noise or devalues the exclusive nature of their business without offering any significant benefits to them.
Information
3.35 Information that promotes and explains the provision of countryside access is important for both residents and visitors and so the availability of signage, information boards and promoted routes relating to public access in the Lower Windrush Valley was assessed.
Signage and information boards
3.36 The county council has a statutory duty to sign rights of way and OCC aim to ensure all paths have a metal fingerpost indicating where they start from a highway and waymarker discs at appropriate locations along the length of the path to indicate the definitive line of the path.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 14 Supply Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 15 Supply Audit
3.37 The only additional information currently provided is set out on five interpretation boards installed by the Lower Windrush Valley Project along the two sections of the Windrush Path.
Promoted routes
3.38 20 published routes were identified within or potentially accessible from the Lower Windrush Valley. Most were just outside or on the perimeter of the valley and included part of the Thames Path National Trail. Only one route was for cyclists, two routes specifically promoted for disabled access and all others were for walkers. There are no known promoted bridle routes in the area.
3.39 The LWVP and OCC have been responsible for creating all the individual walk leaflets, currently available for routes in the valley. These include the Windrush Path, Witney Lake and Meadows and the Windrush Path Mosaic Trail. Most other routes were published in books and tended to start from pubs. Relatively little attention has been given to walks from settlements and major accommodation providers such as Hardwick Parks and Lincoln Farm Park are poorly served by current promoted routes.
Visitor facilities
3.40 Most commercial visitor enterprises in the Valley offer facilities to their customers, ranging from simple car parks and portable toilets to club houses with bar and restaurant facilities. Facilities for the general public are limited to picnic tables, which are found at three locations and the car park, café and toilets at Linch Hill Water Park, which is primarily intended for anglers. There is no visitor centre or interpretation centre for the general public.
Car Parking
3.41 Five formal parking areas are available within the valley; two lay-bys on the A415, the village car park in Ducklington, the village hall car park in Standlake and Linch Hill Leisure Park. Ten other informal roadside parking areas were identified from aerial photographs. Most available parking is associated with commercial businesses, which is available to their customers or members only. There is roadside parking within villages but on relatively narrow roads this can cause problems for users and concern amongst residents.
Public Transport
3.42 Four bus services offer access to the LWV. The frequency varies considerably, however, within the constraints of timetabling, the routes available offer good access to, and connect well with, the network of public rights of way. There are no rail services in the local area.
3.43 The cycle path along the A4095 from Witney and Long Hanborough presents an easier opportunity for cyclists to arrive at Long Hanborough by train and cycle into the valley.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 16 Supply Audit
4. Demand Audit
4.1 A demand audit was undertaken to find out more about how existing public access identified in the supply audit was being used and to assess how it might be used in the future. Although no specific figures were available that directly showed current usage, other data was collated to help build up a clearer understanding of both current demand and potential demand from users who do not walk, cycle or ride at present because existing access provision does not meet their needs but whose suppressed demand would be released if access was improved.
4.2 Consultation was a key element of this part of the study and several methods were used to gather evidence and opinions from residents, visitors, user groups and local businesses.
Residents
4.3 Census figures show that c.4000 people live within the LWV and a further 38,000 people live within a few miles of the valley so may also enjoy some level of access. The National Day Visit Survey 2002 showed that 21% (c.8800) of the population could be expected to visit the countryside in a two-week period, mainly for walking.
Figure 5: Parishes that contribute to the local population
Parish with population within LWV Population Paths within 3km of settlement Ducklington 1600 16.4km Hardwick & Yelford 100 8.7km Northmoor 365 26.9km Standlake 1300 13.6km Stanton Harcourt 920 23.9km
Other parishes just outside the valley that contribute to the local population are Aston, Cote & Shifford (1270), South Leigh (350) Eynsham (4700), Witney (22,800), Appleton & Eaton (1400) , Cumnor (5500), Fyfield & Tubney (500), Hinton Waldrist (291) Longworth, (973), a total of 37784.
4.4 The data gathered in the supply audit was analysed to see how access provision differs for each of the individual communities in the LWV. Statistics showing how many public rights of way were available within 3km of each settlement showed residents of Northmoor have the greatest access to the countryside whilst Hardwick has the least.
4.5 The influence of barriers was also particularly apparent in the context of access from settlements with the A40, A415, River Thames and River Windrush isolating many villages.
4.6 Consultation helped develop a clearer understanding of residents needs and identify potential improvements. Two press releases were issued to alert local people to the study and inform them as to how their views could be included. A simple questionnaire was produced containing an OS map of the project area, which invited respondents to identify paths and locations that they currently enjoyed or would like to be able to enjoy and also invited general information and feedback about access within the valley. 300 printed copies of the questionnaire were circulated via local libraries including the library van that serves the valley, placed in village shops and posted to parish, district, and county councils and individuals already known to the LWVP. Forms could also be downloaded from the OCC website. A freepost address was available for all responses.
4.7 A total of 30 responses were received from individuals in Standlake, Stanton Harcourt, Northmoor, Hardwick, Ducklington, Bampton, Witney, Abingdon and Southmoor. Although a relatively small sample size, responses did indicate there was local interest in improving access in the LWV and local users were interested in more than one form of usage.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 17 Demand Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 18 Demand Audit
• 90% were walkers (but only 33% said walking was their sole interest) • 53% were cyclists (but only 3% said cycling was their sole interest) • 23% were horse riders (but only 6% said horse riding was their sole interest) • 3% were walkers with pushchairs • 0% were wheelchair users, motorcyclists, carriage drivers or 4x4 users
4.8 Responses did not suggest that there was any one dominant issue affecting users or that there was a high level of dissatisfaction with the network as it is now. 22 people (73%) suggested specific improvements that they felt would improve the network.
4.9 There were five key improvements that were put forward in more than one response:
• A bridge across the River Thames at Bablock Hythe • Completion of the Windrush Path • Access to the restored lakes (Dix Pit in particular) • Improvements alongside roads • Better links to create a better bridleway network
Visitors
4.10 The Lower Windrush Valley is not currently marketed as a destination by tourist boards or local authorities and so there is little information available regarding how many people visit the valley and whether existing access provision meets their needs. Direct consultation with visitors was beyond the scope of this study, however, estimates of visitor numbers were made from statistics relating to national trends and from the number of businesses in the LWV that derive an income from visitors to the valley.
Day visitors 4.11 The National Day Visits Survey 2002-3 showed the average distance travelled for a countryside trip was 18.7 miles. For walking specifically, average trip distance was about half at 8.6 miles and so in the case of the Lower Windrush Valley, walkers from Oxford, Abingdon, Wantage, Charlbury, Woodstock and Kidlington can be expected to be regular visitors and day visitors may travel from right across Oxfordshire, an estimated population of c.627,000.
4.12 Although no figures were available for the LWV, the supply audit did identify a number of attractions that are known to bring day visitors into the valley, most notably the River Thames, which was the basis for the majority of promoted routes within the LWV that are published in books for walkers.
4.13 The Thames Path Visitor Survey 1999, undertaken by National Trails, found that the majority of all Thames Path users were local residents with more than eight out of ten (83%) short distance users and six out of ten (62%) long distance users living within 30 miles of the Trail. Most of those who were not local residents were staying locally.
4.14 Research undertaken in support of West Oxfordshire District Council’s Tourism Strategy also suggested that tourism in the district is dominated by day and touring visitors who comprise 71% of the visitor total. Only 29% of visitors were found to stay overnight in the district.
Overnight visitors 4.15 The number of accommodation providers is a clear indication that there are a significant number of overnight visitors in the LWV. In the absence of any official figures some useful insights were gained by talking to accommodation providers and these findings are contained in the section on businesses that supply services.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 19 Demand Audit
User Groups
4.16 A search was carried out to identify groups within or covering the Lower Windrush Valley that would represent users with a specific interest in countryside access in this area. Although no groups were found that focused their attentions solely on the project area, the following 13 groups were considered to be active in the area.
• Bampton Environmental Watch Group • River Thames Society • British Horse Society (Oxfordshire) (Upper Thames Branch) • CPRE (Witney Area) • West Oxfordshire Cycle Touring Club • Long Distance Walkers’ Association • West Oxfordshire Field Club (Thames Valley Group) • West Oxfordshire Riding Club • Open Spaces Society • Witney Mountain Bike Club • Oxford Fieldpaths Society • Witney Roadrunners • Ramblers’ Association (West Oxford)
4.17 Consultation letters and a copy of the standard path user questionnaire were sent out to all of the user groups. No responses were received within the 5 week period given for the return of completed questionnaires and despite follow up telephone calls, no feedback was received from any of the user groups identified.
4.18 There was one additional group, Cyclox, (Cycling Campaign for Oxford) who responded to the consultation on the OCC website and highlighted the need for improved road conditions for cyclists and the importance of a crossing at Bablock Hythe.
Businesses supplying services
4.19 Businesses that supply services to or otherwise profit from path users and countryside access ‘consumers’ create and support centres of demand. For example, horse riding will be focused on equestrian facilities, whilst walkers and cyclists may centre activities on refreshment points.
4.20 In this part of the demand audit, all businesses that profited from the provision of public access to the countryside were identified and a number of each type of business was contacted by telephone to discuss the needs of their existing or potential customers.
Livery Stables and Equestrian Centres
4.21 Four equestrian businesses were identified in the study area with 3 of these found in Standlake and Brighthampton, Standlake Equestrian Centre, Malthouse Farm and Yew Tree Farm. Although horses are kept elsewhere in the valley, information from local riders suggested that 50-60 horses are stabled in and around Standlake, raising the importance of improving bridleway provision in this area. The fourth stable, Hill Farm was located just north of the A40 above South Leigh and was also noted as a key beneficiary of any proposed improvements in access to and within the valley.
4.22 Equestrian businesses are highly dependent upon countryside access, they are particularly vulnerable to access barriers and have a good knowledge of the local network and so as part of the consultation process face to face meetings were held with the managers of Standlake Equestrian Centre and Hill Farm Livery Stables to investigate issues for horse riders in more detail. The lack of off road routes and danger of using local roads was highlighted in both meetings. Whilst the lack of a bridleway link south of the A40 into the LWV was a particular issue at Hill Farm.
Accommodation providers
4.23 26 businesses that provide overnight accommodation were identified within the study area with an estimated total capacity of c.2500 people. It was evident from the figures, that most of the overnight visitors in the LWV are families staying at camping and caravan sites.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 20 Demand Audit
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 21 Demand Audit
4.24 The estimated total capacity did not include moorings on the River Thames or the many accommodation providers just outside the study area in Witney and surrounding villages and so in reality there may be many more overnight visitors in the wider area who also enjoy access to the countryside in the LWV.
Type of business No. of businesses Capacity per night B&B 5 31 beds Pubs offering B&B 3 38 beds Self catering cottage 5 6 cottages with 22 beds Hotel 1 86 rooms with c.200 beds Camping & Caravan Site 6 c.800 vans / pitches c.2000 people Watersports Club 1 c.85 vans plus camping c.250 people Total 26 c.2500 people per night
Figure 6: Accommodation providers
4.25 Telephone interviews were held with eight of these businesses. Three self-catering cottages, two B&Bs, two camping and caravan sites and one pub offering B&B were contacted and most commented that they were fully booked most of the year (campsites seasonally). Only one B&B catered mostly for businessmen. The other seven businesses reported that the majority of visitors went walking or cycling during their stay, but few went horse riding.
4.26 Seven out of the eight interviewed rated good walks and rides as highly important in attracting visitors and six commented that they actively use information about walks and cycling in their promotional material. Walkers on the Thames Path frequently used the Rose Revived PH and five businesses commented that they suggested the Oxfordshire Cycle Way to their cycling visitors. All agreed that better walks and rides would benefit their business.
Pubs providing refreshments
4.27 Eight pubs were identified in the valley, with at least one in every village except Hardwick and another three just outside the project area. With no other restaurant facilities in the valley the importance of these pubs for both supplying and creating demand from access users is significant. (Three pubs are also included in the previous section as they also offer B&B). • The Ferryman Inn, Bablock Hythe (B&B) • The Mason’s Arms, South Leigh • The Bell, Ducklington (B&B) • The Maybush, Newbridge • The Strickland Arms, Ducklington • The Red Lion, Northmoor • The Bell, Standlake • The Harcourt Arms, Stanton Harcourt • The Black Horse, Standlake • The Fox, Stanton Harcourt • The Rose Revived, Newbridge (B&B) 4.28 Two of these businesses were interviewed by telephone. The Strickland Arms at Ducklington did not have many walkers or cyclists passing through and had little feedback from customers regarding public rights of way. The Maybush at Newbridge commented that they have “quite a lot of business from Thames Path walkers”. Both pubs felt that promoting walks through leaflets would be helpful to the business.
Village Shops
4.29 Two village shops are found within the valley, in Standlake and Stanton Harcourt, which offer a valuable alternative source of refreshments and local knowledge to visitors who may not wish to use pubs, or are visiting outside of licensing hours. Unfortunately, it was not possible to undertake any consultation with village shop managers during this study.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 22 Demand Audit
5. Policy Audit
5.1 A policy audit was undertaken to show how the development of an access strategy for the Lower Windrush would meet the objectives of the County Council and partner organisations.
Oxfordshire County Council
5.2 Oxfordshire County Council is responsible for the entire highway network through its Countryside Service which has a duty to maintain public rights of way and Highways who look after the wider network of roads. The County’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan and Local Transport Plan are, therefore, the two main policy documents that would inform an access strategy in the Lower Windrush Valley. The County Council also has responsibility for major developments within the County and the policy framework set out in its Mineral and Waste Local Plan is particularly relevant to the Lower Windrush Valley.
Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) 5.3 The Oxfordshire Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2006 – 2011 sets out the Council Council’s vision and aims for improving the public rights of way network. Five aims are identified in the plan, which focus on maintenance of the existing network, creating a more joined up network, enabling access for all and provision of information for residents and visitors. Twenty-eight wide ranging strategic actions form the basis for an annual delivery plan, which is highly dependent on external funding being secured for its implementation. The development and implementation of a Lower Windrush Valley Access Strategy would be an important delivery mechanism for the ROWIP that would secure benefits that meet many of its aims.
Local Transport Plan (LTP) 5.4 The Oxfordshire Local Transport Plan 2006 – 2011 sets out the County Council’s vision for all transport in Oxfordshire. The aims and objectives in the current plan focus on Tackling Congestion, Delivering Accessibility, Safer Roads, Better Air Quality and Improving the Street Environment. The Local Transport Plan seeks to integrate the aims of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan and schemes that address identified transport problems are considered for inclusion in the five-year delivery plan. Urban areas, public transport and major highways used by the majority of people inevitably have the highest priority but further work to integrate the two plans should offer increased opportunities to secure funding for projects associated with rural rights of way that contribute to shared objectives.
Minerals & Waste Local Plan
5.5 The Minerals and Waste Local Plan was adopted in 1996 and is currently being reviewed as part of the new Local Development Framework. The existing plan is informed by government guidance and specific policies set out in the Oxfordshire Structure Plan, which include a commitment to maintaining and improving existing rights of way network and seeking opportunities to increase and improve access to the countryside. The structure plan also highlights the importance of the River Thames for recreational and leisure use.
5.6 Two specific policies in the Minerals Plan aim to take forward the structure plan policies for access when determining mineral applications across the whole county and the development of a restoration and afteruse strategy for the Lower Windrush Valley has enabled more detailed policies relating to access provision, to be written for this particular area.
Policy SH6 states that: The County Council will seek the establishment and long-term maintenance of: a) Nature Conservation areas b) A footpath from Witney to the River Thames at Newbridge & circular routes. c) Areas of general public access
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 23 Policy Audit
5.7 The policies in the Mineral & Waste Local Plan not only set a policy framework for an access strategy in the Lower Windrush Valley but they also offer an important delivery mechanism that was the key to establishing the LWVP in the first place.
West Oxfordshire District Council
5.8 The provision of access to the countryside is not the responsibility of any single team within West Oxfordshire District Council but it is a theme that runs through many of the District Council’s strategies, policies and plans. The Local Plan provides the main policy framework for development in the valley and like the Mineral & Waste Local Plan it offers an important delivery mechanism for access improvements.
5.9 An access strategy for the Lower Windrush Valley would also contribute towards the objectives of the District Council’s Tourism Strategy, Economic Development Strategy and Sport and Leisure Development Strategy.
5.10 The West Oxfordshire Local Plan 2006 -2011 sets out the policy framework for all development and land use in the District, in order to implement the broad strategies outlined in the Oxfordshire Structure Plan. Responsibility for development associated with mineral and waste sites is shared with Oxfordshire County Council and the District Council is mainly responsible for after use of restored sites. Policies relating to tourism, leisure and transport are particularly relevant to the development of an access strategy for the Lower Windrush Valley.
5.11 The Lower Windrush Valley is also covered in a section of its own in the Local Plan reflecting the role the District Council has played in developing an after use strategy for the valley and creating the LWVP. Policy TLC 11 relates to leisure after use in the Lower Windrush Valley and the supporting text states that the Council will encourage the production of a more detailed strategy for after uses, especially recreational use.
Natural England
5.12 When Natural England was formed in 2006 it brought together English Nature and parts of both the Rural Development Service and the Countryside Agency who had all previously had policies and strategies relating to countryside access.
5.13 The Natural England Strategic Direction 2006 –2009, defines the outcomes that will provide the focus for the activities and resources of the new organization. Enjoyment of the natural environment is one of the four strategic outcomes and the objectives and targets associated with it encompass all aspects of countryside access provision.
5.14 The objective that aims to “Improve places for people to enjoy the natural environment” is of particular relevant to the development of a Lower Windrush Access Strategy and National Trails and bridleways are identified as specific targets to achieve this outcome.
Environment Agency
5.15 The Environment Agency has a statutory duty to; promote recreation on or near inland and coastal waters, make the best use of sites they own for recreation and take access into consideration in all their work. In its Corporate Strategy, the Agency makes a commitment to improving access to green space and watersides, helping people participate in angling, boating and other forms of water related recreation and to making sure this also delivers economic and social benefits.
5.16 A Better Place to Play 2006-2011, is the Agency’s strategy specifically for water related sport and recreation. Four overarching objectives are identified in the strategy.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 24 Policy Audit
5.17 Creating a better place to play by: improving the environment, improving access for all, making recreation sustainable and promoting the outdoors. The strategy highlights the importance of partnership working to achieve objectives.
5.18 Proposals associated with access to rivers and lakes in the Lower Windrush Valley will contribute to the Environment Agency’s overall goal for a Better Quality of Life for people.
Thames Path National Trail
5.19 The Thames Path Management Strategy 2006-2011 sets out the objectives and associated actions for work on the Thames Path. They are based on three main principles set out by the Countryside Agency (now Natural England) for all National Trails. Enabling as many people as possible to enjoy access to the National Trails, protecting the ecological, cultural and landscape features of the areas through which each Trail passes and providing sufficient information about the facilities and services that people need to enjoy the route.
5.20 Sixteen objectives have been set for the Thames Path and four of the associated targets are particularly relevant to the Lower Windrush Valley Access Strategy: Objective 7b: Investigate opportunities for aligning the Thames Path next to the river at a number of sections including Bablock Hythe to Pinkhill. Objective 8a: Plan and prioritise improvements for access for those with mobility and visual impairments. Objective 10: Improve and maintain strategic routes within the corridor of the Thames Path that provide access to villages or are part of promoted circular routes. Objective 15: To provide information, facilities and services for users of the Thames Path (including new circular routes and interpretation boards).
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 25 Policy Audit
6. Resource Audit
6.1 A resource audit was undertaken to find out more about the current and potential resources that would be available to implement any proposed countryside access improvements in the Lower Windrush Valley. Three essential types of resource were identified in this section. Revenue funding to employ staff, capital funding to undertake specific works and the support of landowners/land managers who in effect hold the key to the most important resource, the countryside that people would like to access.
Current resources within Oxfordshire County Council
6.2 The existing staff resource currently working to maintain and improve countryside access in the Lower Windrush Valley is based within the Environment & Economy Directorate. The majority of the resource is based in Countryside Service with additional resources in Highways and Planning. It is within the remit of all of the teams outlined below to assist with improvements in the Lower Windrush Valley but at present there is no spare capacity to take on significantly more work without cuts being made elsewhere.
Public Rights of Way Field Team
6.3 One Field Officer is responsible for the management of the 600 miles of path in West Oxfordshire, whilst a small task team carries out most of the physical maintenance of the network. There is no public rights of way officer focusing specifically on the Valley.
Definitive Map & Statement Team
6.4 Management of the Definitive Map and Statement is undertaken by a team of four rights of way officers who cover the whole of Oxfordshire and are responsible for all keeping the map up to date and processing applications for changes to be made and recorded. Current demand for modification orders is already much greater that the team’s existing capacity.
Countryside Access & Information Team
6.5 The Rights of Way Improvement Plan provides the focus for one Strategic Countryside Access Officer and one Countryside Information Officer who work on projects that deliver the objectives set out in the ROWIP action plan.
Lower Windrush Valley Project
6.6 The Lower Windrush Valley Project employs just one full time Project Officer, supported by a Steering Group of professionals from partner organisations. The LWVP is hosted by Oxfordshire County Council within their Countryside Section and improving access to the countryside is a key objective for the project. Access work currently undertaken by the LWVP includes establishment and maintenance of the Windrush Path and the Standlake Common Nature Reserve. The LWVP remit is much wider than just access and the delivery of landscape and biodiversity objectives also compete for officer time.
National Trails Management Team
6.7 The Thames Path and The Ridgeway National Trails are managed together by a joint Management Group composed of senior officers of each Local Authority, the Countryside Agency, the Environment Agency and Tourism South East. A small team of staff based with Oxfordshire County Council undertakes the day to day management of The Thames Path and volunteers, managed by the team, carry out maintenance of much of the route.
6.8 The Thames Path is 184 miles (294km) long following the river from its source near Kemble down to the Thames Barrier near Greenwich, London. A 10.4km section of the River Thames forms the entire southern boundary of the Lower Windrush Valley.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 26 Resource Audit
6.9 6.2km of the Thames Path is within the study area and a further 4.2km runs along the river’s southern bank, just outside the study area. Although this is not a significant proportion of the National Trail, this section of the Thames Path is a major component of the LWV network.
Highways
6.10 The Countryside Service teams work in partnership with the Highways Teams who are responsible for the wider highway network on projects such as the improvement of road crossings, management of road verges or the implementation of traffic management measures that improve conditions for non motorized users. Existing highways resources are targeted towards the delivery of the objectives set out in the Local Transport Plan. Although, the ROWIP is now integrated into the LTP the current priorities do not give it a high profile, however, opportunities for funding rights of way improvements do exist where the two plans share common aims.
Planning Implementation
6.11 The Planning Implementation team is responsible for implementing the policies set out in the Minerals & Waste Local Plan. Planning Officers have a key role to play in securing planning agreements that relate to the policies in the minerals plan that seek to improve the rights of way network and secure opportunities for general public access to restored mineral sites.
Current Resources within Partner Organisations
6.12 Partnership working is a key element in the delivery of countryside access improvements in the Lower Windrush Valley, a number of organisations currently provide funding and support.
Environment Agency
6.13 The Environment Agency is the leading public body protecting the environment in England and Wales responsible for pollution prevention and control, flood risk management, conservation and fisheries management. The work of the Recreation Team also aims to protect, improve and promote recreation on or near water through a range of projects for all users associated with walking, cycling, fishing, canoeing and boating. The Environment Agency is an active partner in the Thames Path National Trail and provides core funding to the LWVP to deliver its wider aims for conservation and recreation in the valley.
Natural England
6.14 Natural England was formed in 2006 by bringing together English Nature, the landscape, access and recreation elements of the Countryside Agency and the environmental land management functions of Defra’s Rural Development Service. The new organisation is responsible for SSSI’s, administration of Agri-Environment Schemes and a range of access and recreation initiatives such as Open Access, Quiet Lanes, Lost Ways, Integrated Access Projects, Walking the Way to Health, Permissive Access, Country Parks and National Trails.
West Oxon District Council
6.15 The Lower Windrush Valley is within the area covered by West Oxfordshire District Council and projects associated with countryside access fall within the remit of their Leisure and Tourism Services, Planning Services and Economic Development Services. With limited resources available within the council, some core funding is provided to the LWVP to help deliver the council’s recreation and tourism objectives in the valley.
6.16 The River Thames forms the District boundary and so the Vale of White Horse District Council also has a role in establishing better links to and from the communities and path network south of the study area.
Witney Town Council
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 27 Resource Audit
6.17 Witney Town Council provides the only Country Park in the Lower Windrush Valley. Witney Lake and Meadows is a small urban fringe site covering 30ha, which the town council purchased in 1988. From 1993 until 2005 a Park Ranger was employed to manage the country park and a volunteer group was established to assist with much of the maintenance and habitat creation works. In 2005, the park ranger post was lost due to financial constraints and responsibility for the Country Park now falls to the Town Council’s Amenity Manager who has a much wider remit than just this site.
Sustrans
6.18 Sustrans is the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity whose projects include the National Cycle Network. Sustrans are currently bidding for £50million from the Big Lottery, through the Living Landmarks; the People’s Millions project. The Connect2 proposal brings together partners across the UK and aims to overcome many long-standing barriers such as busy roads, railways or rivers.
6.19 Sustrans have been working in the Lower Windrush Valley to develop a cycle route from Eynsham to Witney and were active partners in the Working Group that was established by the LWVP to look at options for a new crossing at Bablock Hythe.
Land Owners / Land Managers
6.20 The land on which access is provided is the single most important resource and the support of landowners and land managers is essential to creating a good rights of way network and associated access to the countryside. In any negotiations for access improvements land owners, tenants and managers will need to be involved. The role they play will be crucial to success, whether through their intimate knowledge of the land and factors affecting its management or through practical help and advice they can give for scheme implementation. Upon completion of a project, landowners continue to be a vital resource through their responsibilities as land managers and through the role they can play as agents on the ground.
6.21 Land ownership patterns within the valley are complex. A few large holdings control much of the land. These are traditional agricultural estates, land owned by quarrying companies, often with tenant farmers or water sports / leisure companies and clubs with significant holdings centred on lakes. Between the large blocks of land there are smaller private farms, managed by the owner or leased to a tenant. Smallholdings, pony paddocks and gardens complete the mosaic of landownership in the valley. Whilst one landowner may predominate in an area, this is rarely total and most public rights of way improvements will impact upon more than one owner. The only area of countryside that is in public ownership is Witney Lake and the adjacent meadow, which at 13.7ha covers only 0.5% of the study area.
6.22 All landowners were sent a letter and consultation form, and meetings with key landowners offered an opportunity to discuss issues further. In general, there was little expressed dissatisfaction with public rights of way and other access provision as they affect land ownership. While there is little willingness to volunteer additional access, most owners / managers are prepared to consider improvements that can also address particular issues.
6.23 Certain generic concerns were expressed; for mineral and waste companies, public safety is a major concern, with the frequent movement of heavy vehicles a key factor in limiting access to sites. For water sports and angling interests the main issue is one of maintaining exclusive member benefits. Disturbance and security are other concerns. Dogs off leads worrying livestock, littering and misuse of gates and fences are the main concerns raised by farmers.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 28 Resource Audit
Potential Sources of Capital and Revenue Funding
6.24 If there is no spare capacity available within the current resources offered by the LWVP, OCC and a network of wider partnership working, additional resources will have to be secured if a new access strategy is to be developed in the LWV. Developer funding has been an integral part of the success of the LWVP to date and should continue to be a source of additional capital and revenue funding in the future. A number of grant schemes are currently available that have countryside access, amenity, recreation or rural tourism stated in their objectives. Other initiatives such as Visitor Payback schemes may also be worth further investigation.
Developer Contributions
6.25 Under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 local authorities are able to enter into legal agreements with developers that secure financial or in kind contributions for projects that mitigate the impact on the local community of large scale developments and so make the proposed development acceptable in planning terms.
6.26 In Oxfordshire, a strong minerals and waste policy framework as enabled effective use of section 106 agreements in the Lower Windrush Valley to secure specific agreements for new footpaths, nature reserves and amenity areas that benefit communities affected by the mineral activity in the valley. Financial contributions have also been secured to support the LWVP who co-ordinate and implement the agreed works. All future mineral planning permissions in the Lower Windrush Valley should aim to secure similar levels of funding and this could be used to develop an access strategy.
Landfill Tax Credit Scheme (LTCS)
6.27 The LTCS was introduced in 1996 and enables operators of landfill sites to contribute a proportion of the tax levied on landfill waste towards projects which improve the lives of communities living near landfill sites. In Oxfordshire, the LTCS is administered by the Trust for Oxfordshire’s Environment (TOE) and has three categories including one targeted towards the Provision and maintenance of a public amenity within the vicinity of a landfill site. Projects must be undertaken within 10 miles, which would include the whole of the LWV which falls within a 4 mile radius of the licensed landfill site at Stanton Harcourt, operated by WRG.
6.28 The LWVP has benefited from landfill tax grants in the past and this is likely to be an important source of funding in the future for implementing access improvements.
Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund (ALSF)
6.29 The ALSF was introduced in 2003 to distribute funds generated by a tax on the production of primary aggregates such as sand and gravel. The ALSF administered by Natural England aims to support projects which address the impact that aggregates extraction has on the natural environment and local communities. It has five themes including one that targets Access and Informal Recreation. In 2007, applications were being taken for grants of £5000 - £350,000 with a requirement for all funding to be spent within the financial year.
6.30 Most improvements to countryside access in the LWV would fit the ALSF criteria, however, the uncertainty as to whether this fund will continue each year means applications have to be made within a very short timescale and the requirement to spend the grant within the financial year only allows for capital works that can be delivered within 9 months to be achieved.
Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF)
6.31 Lottery funding continues to be a potential source of direct and indirect grant aid that the LWVP itself could apply for, or could facilitate community or special interest groups to make their own applications. A variety of schemes are currently open to applicants depending on the level of funding being sought. All include the natural environment in their definition of heritage.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 29 Resource Audit
6.32 Awards for All: Grants of £300 to £10,000 to fund a specific project or activity. Any not for profit group, school, parish or town council can apply. Funds must be spent within one year.
6.33 Your Heritage: Grants of £5000 - £50,000 for projects that actively involve communities including staff costs, practical works and information, with funds to be spent in five years.
6.34 Heritage Grants: Grants of more than £50,000 for heritage projects that increase involvement or access to heritage. Partnership funding is required and funds must be spent in five years.
6.35 Landscape Partnerships offers grants of £250,000 - £5 million for a portfolio of projects, which combine to provide a varied package of benefits to an area and the communities which live work and visit there. A partnership approach is central to this grant scheme. The Great Western Community Forest is currently working up on a Landscape Partnership application focusing on the heritage of the Upper River Thames and the Wychwood Project are also considering developing a partnership within their project area which overlaps with the LWVP.
Charitable Trusts
6.36 Charitable Trusts may offer a potential source of funding. Esmee Fairbairn is one of the largest grant making foundations in the UK and they have made substantial grants to Transport 2000, London Cycling Campaign Ltd and Sustrans in recent years.
Rural Development Plan England (RDPE) 2007-2013
6.37 Jointly funded by the EU and the UK government the RDPE will target agriculture, land based businesses, and rural & urban fringe communities providing support under three axes. Axis 2 and 3 are most relevant to this study although full details of schemes have yet to be released.
6.38 Axis 2: Enhancing the environment and countryside will be administered by Natural England and may make provision for the delivery of Rights of Way Improvement Plans although 80% of the budget has been assigned to meeting Defra’s PSA biodiversity targets.
6.39 Axis 3: Enhancing opportunity in rural areas will be administered by SEEDA, which is likely to include rural tourism as a key priority.
6.40 A new Leader programme will also start in 2008 to deliver across all of the three axes in the RDPE. West Oxfordshire has had a successful Leader + programme running since 2002 that will finish in 2008 and a new bid for Leader funds is being prepared in the district, although the proposal is based on the Cotswold joint character area and so is unlikely to include the LWV.
Visitor Payback
6.41 Visitor Payback is a term that is used to describe schemes where visitors make voluntary donations to projects looking after the area they are visiting. Findings of a study of existing schemes undertaken by the East of England Tourist Board and direct contact with the “On the Right Tracks” project in South Hams, Devon suggested that useful sums of money can be generated but such schemes are very labour intensive with high administration costs that can significantly reduce net income.
6.42 It is important that visitors identify with the area and are willing to contribute. The LWV overnight visitor population is estimated at 2500 per night so revenue potential may be limited, particularly as caravans tend to be owned by individuals. However, other benefits such as publicity and development of partnerships may make a scheme worth pursuing in the LWV.
6.43 The Cotswolds AONB piloted a visitor payback scheme in 2005 in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council based around Chipping Norton. The pilot project was managed using existing staff resources and with limited staff time available to dedicate to this project, there was a significant risk that the project would not succeed. To ensure the successful implementation of the project in West Oxfordshire a successful application for LEADER+ funding was made that has resulted in a Project Officer being recruited for 18 months.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 30 Resource Audit
7. Audit Analysis
7.1 The access audit set out to discover as much as possible about the existing access provision in the Lower Windrush Valley. Information was collected from a wide range of sources that included desk based research, site visits, and consultation with residents, local businesses and landowners. Analysis of this evidence base was then undertaken to assess the need for access improvements and the opportunities for achieving them. The findings of the audit showed there were many issues that needed to be addressed in order to improve countryside access in the Lower Windrush Valley and that there was a desire amongst local people, businesses and partner organisations to see improvements implemented.
7.2 Supply Audit: The available information about rights of way, accessible greenspace, visitor faciilties and information all indicated that improvements needed to be made for both local residents and visitors.
7.3 Demand Audit: Population and visitor numbers demonstrated that a significant number of people would benefit from access improvements and the economic welfare of the valley was also shown to be dependent on access provision.
7.4 Policy Audit: A strong policy framework for improving countryside access was found within many partner organisations, which suggested a high level of support for the development of an access strategy for the Lower Windrush.
7.5 Resource Audit: Although many partner organisations were involved in work associated with access in the Lower Windrush Valley, most were overstretched and had little spare capacity. It was clear that additional resources would be required to implement improvements but the LWV was well placed to benefit from opportunities offered by planning agreements and grants.
7.6 The key issues arising from the audit are presented in the SWOT analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats set out below.
Figure 7: Audit SWOT analysis
Strengths Weaknesses • Good footpath network • Limited access to rivers and lakes • Attractive post-use landscape • Disjointed bridleways network • Established visitor destination • Lack of accessible greenspace • Active community involvement • Many natural and man-made barriers • Good communications with landowners • Difficult road conditions for Non and land managers Motorised Users • LWVP with good track record for • Lack of information about existing delivering policy objectives access opportunities • Major developers engaged with LWVP • Lack of staff resources to achieve and delivering benefits improvements
Opportunities Threats • Strong policy framework for securing • Loss of available funding sources eg: funding through planning agreements Landfill Tax, Aggregates Levy • Piloting Rights of Way Improvement • High visitor numbers affecting amenity Plan may attract additional funding and conservation value • Large local population will benefit from • Further development having an negative access improvements impact on access network • Access to the valley strongly linked to • Conflicts with existing interests eg: rural economy and leisure market. angling, farming, private clubs
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 31 Audit Analysis
8. Potential Improvements
8.1 The information produced during the access audit provided strong evidence that there was a genuine need for improvements to both the existing rights of way network and the provision of more general access to the countryside in the Lower Windrush Valley. During the audit many ideas for access improvements were generated and so the next stage of the study was to work up a number of realistic proposals that would establish whether significant benefits could be delivered “on the ground” if more resources were made available and make the case for further investment.
8.2 All of the suggested improvements were carefully considered and those thought to be achievable put on an initial long list, which was discussed with relevant landowners to assess the feasibility from a land management perspective and to see whether any mutual benefits could be found. Site visits were undertaken to assess the physical works required, to identify the mechanism by which the improvement could be achieved and the overall resource implication of each proposal. Many of the improvements on the original list were ruled out during this more detailed analysis due to resource implications, risk of major conflicts with existing interests or legal problems that would be encountered.
8.3 The improvements that were put forward for further consideration were selected in accordance with a set of guiding principles that stated that all proposals would:
• aim to offer the least restrictive access to benefit as many people as possible. • be consistent with the aims of the County Council’s ROWIP and LTP • have a reasonable expectation of being deliverable • seek to benefit land management as well as public access • fully respect landscape, conservation, archaeology and cultural interests • not be to the undue detriment of landowner or tenant interests
8.4 25 potential improvements were selected to be worked up in detail and which together formed a portfolio of projects that were thought to be achievable and if implemented would address the needs and demands identified in the access audit in a meaningful way. The specific works put forward in this final selection tackle the four action points that arose out of the audit.
Theme One: Access to waterside
8.5 The access audit provided supporting evidence for an opinion already widely held by policy makers, that local people have a particularly strong desire to access the rivers and lakes within the Lower Windrush Valley.
8.6 Access to the banks of the rivers was found to be relatively good with the Thames Path National Trail, Windrush Path and the many bridges across the Windrush offering attractive views enabling visitors to enjoy both the Thames and Windrush. However, access to restored gravel pits was very limited with the majority of lakes owned by commercial businesses that manage them as private clubs or offer facilities for fee paying visitors. Witney Lake was identified as the only site with full public access for informal recreation.
8.7 Potential improvements that were put forward to address this theme included, promoting the existing resource more widely including recording the Windrush Path on Ordnance Survey maps, stronger planning policies to ensure all applications for development offer opportunities for securing access to the waterside and specific proposals to improve “access for all” at Witney Lake and Standlake Common Nature Reserve.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 32 Potential Improvements
Theme Two: Improvements to the bridleway network
8.8 The access audit suggested that the Lower Windrush Valley has the potential to be at the hub of an excellent network of bridleways and quiet roads that could be enjoyed by all users. This potential would be unlocked if a small number of significant improvements were made that overcome the major barriers by providing safe road or river crossings and fill in the missing links by upgrading existing footpaths to bridleway status or securing new sections of bridleway. This would create many options for circular routes and the benefits of improvements to the bridleway network would have the bonus of extending beyond the relatively limited equestrian community, to walkers and cyclists with some off-road capabilities.
8.9 The potential improvements put forward to address this theme included upgrading eight existing footpaths (c.9km) to bridleway status to create links from Standlake to Dix Pit, Northmoor to the River Thames at Rainbow Bridge, Standlake to Shifford, from the A40 to South Leigh, Cogges /Tar Lane to the east side of South Leigh and from Northmoor to the River Thames at Northmoor Lock.
8.10 Proposals were also put forward for the creation of six entirely new sections of bridleway (c.6.5km) that would effectively complete the network. These included options for; linking the bridleway network north of the A40 at Hill Farm to the LWV network to the south via Church Lane South Leigh, linking Ducklington to Cogges Lane, linking South Leigh to the western end of Cogges Lane via the old railway line, linking Cogges / Tar Lane and the network to the north to the only bridleway south of the B4449, a link to the road at Shifford from the footpath / upgraded bridleway from Standlake and finally, a new route north of Dix Pit to avoid the centre of Stanton Harcourt.
8.11 The other major potential improvements within this theme related to the provision of new access across the River Thames, as the lack of suitable crossings is the most significant barrier to a wider bridleway and cycleway network. Proposals put forward included a new crossing at Bablock Hythe for all users and at Northmoor Lock, for walkers and ‘mountain’ or ‘hybrid’ bike users. Reinstating a ferry service at Bablock Hythe was suggested as alternative option to a bridge and further research into ferries operating at other locations was undertaken and presented as a case study.
Theme Three: Improved road conditions for non-motorised users (NMUs)
8.12 The audit highlighted how the wider road network has a vital role to play in linking footpaths and bridleways in the Lower Windrush Valley. The existing minor road network fulfils this role to some extent but access along sections of major roads is also necessary to connect some of the existing paths. Three specific sections of the A415 and B4449 were put forward as potential improvements, where the provision of some form of wider margin to accommodate walkers, cyclist and horse riders away from the main carriageway would have a significant impact on the overall network. The OCC Highways Team was identified as a key partner in delivering these improvements and whilst they fully support the principal, there is unlikely to be funds for implementation. Parish Councils also have powers to dedicate land as part of the highway if it will benefit people in the parish.
8.13 A cycle path along the full length of the A415 was considered highly desirable but unlikely to be delivered within the current LTP budget and so was not put forward as an achievable goal. However, it was noted that current studies into a replacement bridge at Newbridge must be used as an opportunity to improve this river crossing for non- motorised users.
8.14 The designation of Cogges/Tar Lane as a Quiet Lane was also put forward as a potential improvement. Quiet Lanes are a Natural England (formerly Countryside Agency) initiative supported by the Department for Transport, which promotes the provision made in the Transport Act 2000 that gives local authorities the power to designate minor rural roads as Quiet Lanes to allow shared use by walkers, cyclists, horse riders and motorists.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 33 Potential Improvements
Theme Four: Improved information, signage and promoted routes
8.15 The information gathered from local people and businesses as part of the audit suggested there was uncertainty amongst residents and visitors about where they can enjoy access, what changes have taken place through mineral working and routes of individual paths. In particular, accommodation providers and other visitor service businesses highlighted the importance of good paths for their business, and therefore to the local economy. The increased provision of information, signage and promoted routes, particularly linked into the local communities, was put forward as an achievable improvement that would maximize the value of the existing access resource.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 34 Potential Improvements
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 35 Potential Improvements
9. Framework Analysis
9.1 A framework was developed for assessing and validating the potential importance of the proposed improvements, which was guided by the priorities, opportunities and constraints identified in the County Council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan and the Local Transport Plan. The framework involves a spreadsheet approach to assessing the value of individual improvements and the following factors were considered in the analysis:
• Connectivity: How many other public rights of way (or minor roads leading to rights of way) will the proposed improvement benefit?
• Catchment: How many users will be expected to benefit from the improvement?
• Strategic importance: How important is this improvement to achieving wider reaching aims? For example, a short stretch of roadside verge may be of no interest in itself but may be essential for joining links in a longer distance bridleway.
• Amenity: How important is the improvement likely to be for recreational use of the path/network?
• Utility: How important is the improvement likely to be for meeting the needs of commuting or other utilitarian journeys (and hence its value to the Local Transport Plan)
• ROWIP: How important is the proposal in addressing the aims of the ROWIP.
• Potential: Does this improvement open up other valuable opportunities?
• Against: How serious are any negative implications arising from the proposal (e.g. effects on land management or particular user groups)? NB. Attracts scores of 0 to minus 3.
• Score: With the exception of ‘Against’, all categories are scored from 0 – 3, where ‘0’ relates to zero benefit and ‘3’ to high benefit. The total score allows a quantitative ranking of proposals.
Figure 8: Example of Proposal assessed using Framework Analysis
Strategic Imp.
Connectivity Connectivity Catchment
Potential Amenity Amenity Against ROWIP Utility Score
Proposal Notes
A river crossing Important on many levels as it will at Bablock Hythe reopen a traditional crossing point, for walkers, improve 1.5km of Thames Path, open 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 0 20 cyclists, a regional cycle route Oxford to equestrian & Witney & access to bridleway network disabled users south of the Thames
Results of the framework
9.2 The analysis proved to be a useful exercise in terms of questioning the validity of proposals. It allowed each proposal to be subject to scrutiny with respect to a number of important factors and the weaknesses or limitations of proposals to deliver against key policy objectives were clearly shown up using this simple method.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 36 Framework Analysis
10. The Next Steps towards an Access Strategy
10.1 The access audit was undertaken to discover more about the existing provision of access to the countryside in the Lower Windrush Valley in order to create a knowledge base that would inform the development of an access strategy for the Lower Windrush Valley. The findings suggested that, whilst there was a demonstrable need and desire for countryside access to be improved and a strong policy framework to support further investment in making improvements additional resources would have to be found to develop and implement them.
10.2 In order to assess the level of resources required, 25 potential improvements were worked up in greater detail, to provide estimates of officer time and the cost of professional fees, advertising and capital works. The results confirmed that a considerable amount of staff time would be required to implement any improvements and that a dedicated Project Officer would need to be in post for a minimum of three years to achieve significant benefits.
10.3 Increasing staff resources within the LWVP was also shown to be a key factor in securing substantial grants for capital works. The resource audit confirmed that the LWVP was well placed to benefit from a number of funding sources but the limiting factor was the officer time needed to work up proposals and make grant applications.
10.4 With both the Land Access Study and further research undertaken by the LWVP now completed, the next step will be to present the findings to a wide range of stakeholders and secure support for developing a partnership that will be a vital element of the access strategy.
10.5 The priority will then be to secure funding for a Project Officer post that will increase the staff capacity within the existing LWVP structure so that benefits can be delivered on the ground. It is anticipated that external funding sources will only offer short term funding, however, the LWVP will need the services of a second Project Officer beyond this and so all opportunities for maintaining this post would also need to be explored in the medium to long term.
10.6 The Land Access Study concluded that “The Lower Windrush Valley has the potential to offer excellent countryside access that will benefit local people, visitors and the local economy. However, realising that potential relies on a number of key improvements being delivered, which will require additional staff time to fund, administer and implement”. With a strong evidence base now available to support further investment in improving countryside access, the challenge for the LWVP will be to realise that potential.
Countryside Access in the Lower Windrush 37 Next Steps Towards An Access Strategy