The Parish Path Warden Scheme was introduced by Northamptonshire's Rights of Way Section in the Mid 1990's. The purpose of the scheme was to create a network of volunteers that would work on a local level. This helps to ensure that public rights of way remain open and serviceable.
Aims of the Scheme
The main purpose of the scheme is to involve local communities and councils in the management of the county's public rights of way network. This will help ensure that routes are not obstructed, are clearly defined, properly maintained and hopefully promoted to local people.
The aim of the Rights of Way Section is to have a PPW in each of the county's parishes, forming an important link between the County Council and the local community.
The Appointment of a PPW
Parish Path Wardens come from all walks of life, however they all share a common interest in the countryside and in particular the Rights of Way network.
The appointment of a PPW for a parish must follow a formal recommendation from the Parish Council or a recommendation from another source which has the support of the Parish Council.
Once a formal recommendation has been received a meeting is arranged between the prospective PPW and the Rights of Way Officer for that area (see Pages In This Section). Details of the scheme are provided along with appropriate advice and training. At the conclusion of the meeting, if both parties are in agreement, the appointment of the PPW is confirmed.
The Role of the PPW.
- To act as a liaison point for rights of way issues between their town or parish council and the County Council's Rights of Way Section
- To ensure that the needs of the local community in respect of the rights of way network, are being represented.
- To inspect all the rights of way in their parish at least once a year.
- To report any problems encountered on the network to their individual Rights of Way Officer for that area.