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Landowners: The Right Roam "Goes Too Far"
The Countryside And Rights of Way Bill, allowing ramblers wider access to the countryside, "goes too far" according to Edward Greenwell of the Country Landowners' Association (CLA). However its concerns that the 'right to roam,' and in particular the control of dogs, will perturb livestock were rejected by The Ramblers' Association. Claire Madron speaking for The Ramblers' Association -campaigning for ramblers' rights- said the CLA's claims are "just a smokescreen." Edward Greenwell talking on BBC East Midlands Today, explained that landowners also need more clarification over occupiers' liability. The CLA has therefore proposed over 100 amendments to the Bill. Claire Madron, of the Ramblers' Association, emphasised that if any ramblers were to cause damage to a landowner's property, then "they would be liable." She added: "Current legislation is preventing law-abiding people from using the land."
For the last 50 years, local authorities have been responsible for making access agreements with landowners on behalf of the public. According to Ms. Madron only 3% of the 4 million acres promised for public access have been opened up. The Ramblers' Association calls rambling one of the "most environment-friendly leisure pursuits." So Ms. Madron believes that it would be difficult for the CLA "to justify any claims that rambling causes environmental damage." The debates continues... |
HM Stationery Office Countryside and Rights of Way Bill |
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