VEHICLE USE ON ANCIENT RIGHT OF WAY LOOPHOLE

Early day motion 43, tabled 26 November 2003 by Caroline Spelman (Conservative). Signed by 67 members.

That this House recognises the impact of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 in reclassifying all roads used as public paths to restricted byways; notes that in order to upgrade a restricted byway to a byway open to all, proof has to be provided of 20 years' uninterrupted usage by a wheeled vehicle; further notes that use by horse and cart up to several hundred years ago would automatically confirm the right of passage of modern wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles; recognises the environmental and social impact of this legal loophole; and urges the Government to take action to close it forthwith.

Signatures by party: Conservative 61, Liberal Democrat 3, Independent Conservative 1, Labour 1, Plaid Cymru 1.