DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils must assert, protect, and maintain open and accessible all paths, routes, waterways, or other means through which access rights can reasonably be exercised. They are also required to prepare a core paths plan and establish a local access forum to support and manage public access.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Planning
Duty type
Public impact
Social determinant of health
Social and community context
Emerging policy and legislation
1
National bodies with shared interest
Nature Scot
Paths for All Partnership
Standards and frameworks
1