North Northants Local Access Forum (NNLAF)
Local access forums (LAFs) are advisory bodies that provide independent advice on public access to land, for recreational and other functional and utility purposes.
Local access forums have a legal function to give advice to a collection of bodies and organisations including:
- the appointing authority, including the local highways authority or National Park authority
- any county, unitary, district or borough council within the area of the LAF
- any secretary of state (or government department)
- Natural England
- The Forestry Commission
- English Heritage
- Sport England
- any parish or town council for any part of the area in which a LAF is established
Our role and responsibilities
The function of the North Northants Local Access Forum (NNLAF) is to advise North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Councils, as appointing authorities for the area, regarding matters affecting public access within the county.
The main remit of the group is to advise the unitary councils, along with other local authorities, on the management of the county's public rights of way. The advice of the group is to ensure the continued improvement and protection of public rights of way in Northamptonshire for the purposes of open-air recreation and the enjoyment of the countryside.
Terms of reference
The local access forum for the District of North Northamptonshire shall be known as The North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum (NNLAF).
Local Access Forums (LAFs) are advisory bodies established by local highway authorities under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (the Act). North Northamptonshire Council is the Appointing Authority for the Forum (herein referred to as ‘the Appointing Authority’).
In 2007 Defra published the Local Access Forums (England) Regulations 2007 (the Regulations). These came into force on 19 March 2007 with additional Guidance from the Secretary of State. Operation of NNLAF will comply with these regulations and any associated guidance or amendments.
1. Purpose
1.1 The primary purpose of NNLAF is to provide advice to a range of organisations specified in the CROW Act 2000 and in supplementary regulations and guidance. Specifically, the NNLAF is in place to: ‘advise as to the improvement of public access to land in the area for the purposes of open-air recreation and the enjoyment of the area, and as to such other matters as may be prescribed.’
2. Role
NNLAF shall:
2.1 Comment on the Appointing Authority’s access strategies with a view to developing additional opportunities for everyone to enjoy the rights of way network, with particular emphasis on encouraging those who might feel excluded, for example people with disabilities.
2.2 Advise the Appointing Authority on the development of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan for the North Northamptonshire local authority area.
2.3 Advise on the promotion of opportunities for the appropriate use and enjoyment of the countryside.
2.4 Advise upon the appropriate management and maintenance of access to land in the North Northamptonshire local authority area to which the public have access for open-air recreation.
2.5 Respond to Natural England on the draft maps of open country and registered common land.
2.6 Respond to consultations by Government Departments and Agencies on Access land, registered common land and other open country.
2.7 NNLAF will set their priorities and forward plan for investigations depending on local issues on an annual basis but will endeavour to respond to consultations and draft policy documents. When making recommendations, NNLAF members will consider land use, as well as the need to conserve flora, fauna, geological and physical features.
2.8 NNLAF will provide advice to prescribed bodies under Section 94 of the Act:
- The Appointing Authority
- The Secretary of State (meaning any Government Dept. with Secretary of State)
- Natural England
- Forestry Commission
- English Heritage
Regulation 21 also permits advice to:
- Sport England (English Sports Council)
- Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Conservation Boards
- Parish and Town Councils
2.9 Advice to Bodies under Section 94 of the Act will be one or more of the following:
- Improvements to Public Access to land (by foot, cycle, horse, or mechanically propelled vehicle that is lawful to status of the land) for purpose of recreation and enjoyment Public Access to land for lawful purposes
- Public Access to land by mechanically propelled vehicle for Byways to opens to Traffic
2.10 NNLAF advice to Bodies under Section 94 of the Act will be issues with the following preface: ‘This Letter Constitutes formal advice from the North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum. (Insert name of section 94 body) is required in accordance with section 94 (5) of The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, to have regard to the relevant advice from this forum in carrying out its functions.’
3. Responsibilities
3.1 In carrying out its function, the NNLAF will have regard to biodiversity, wildlife management, land management and the needs and interests of landowners, land managers, user groups and the public at large.
3.2 The NNLAF shall consider statutory guidance issued by the Secretary of State whilst operating within the Countryside and Rights of Way Act and regulations made thereafter.
3.3 The NNLAF shall respect local circumstances as well as environmental, social, economic, and educational interests.
4. Membership of the forum
4.1 The NNLAF shall consist of a minimum of 10 and maximum of 22 members.
4.2 The maximum number of members of the NNLAF who members of the appointing authority may also be is:
a) In the case of the NNLAF consisting of not more than 16 members, two, and
b) In the case of the NNLAF consisting of at least 17 members, three.
4.3 The Appointing Authority may appoint a new member or members to the NNLAF at any time, provided that the total number of members does not exceed 22 as a result of the appointment. If the number of members of NNLAF falls below ten at any time, the appointing authority must, as soon as reasonably practicable, appoint a new member or members so that the forum consists of at least ten members. Appointments shall be made in accordance with the Regulations.
4.4 Appointment to the NNLAF will be for a period of up to three years but members can be reappointed at the end of their term. Vacancies will be advertised to be filled as soon as possible once they arise. The NNLAF Chair will advise the Appointing Authority of membership vacancies and request recruitment.
4.5 A record of Members’ appointment terms and interests will be recorded and kept up to date on the NNLAF Webpages.
4.6 Individual members will, through consultation, represent a field of interest rather than a particular organisation of which they might also be a member. A reasonable balance of members representing different interests will be maintained.
4.7 Members of NNLAF must not use their position to seek or gain an unfair advantage by pursuing their own interests or issues. Members are there to represent their wider group, i.e. Land management representatives must think beyond their own land holdings and seek to express the views of the land management community.
4.8 Members are expected to take active steps to stay in touch with the community they represent so that they can convey its views to the Forum.
4.9 NNLAF can request the access authority to terminate a member’s appointment if they:
- without consent fail to attend meetings for a year
- fail to reflect wider community views
- act against the interests of the NNLAF; or
- are rude or abusive to other NNLAF Members or Officers of the Appointing Authority
4.10 Members of the Appointing Authority can be appointed to serve on the Forum, but these members must be clear if they represent ‘public agency’ interests or ‘community’ interests in their responses.
4.11 If Members wish to resign from the NNLAF, they should inform the Secretary, in writing.
5. Chair and Vice Chair
5.1 The Chair and Vice Chair will be drawn from Forum members and be elected by whichever method the Forum decides appropriate. The Chair and Vice Chair will represent different categories of interest. Members of the Appointing Authority will not be eligible for either position.
5.2 The appointment to these posts will be renewed on an annual basis in March, or the closest meeting date thereafter. In the event that either post becomes vacant during the period of appointment, the NNLAF may decide that both posts should be filled afresh. The total period during which a member may be Chair or Vice Chair will not exceed the period of their appointment as a member. This is an annual appointment, Re-election can take place, but for no longer than a two-year block.
5.3 Where neither the Chair nor Vice Chair can attend a meeting, the NNLAF will elect a Chair on a casual basis (i.e. for the duration of that meeting only) from those members present at the meeting.
5.4 The Chair, in consultation with the NNLAF and the secretary will draft the agenda for NNLAF meetings.
6. Meetings of the forum
6.1 Meetings are to be held at least twice every year. The NNLAF may meet more frequently but shall meet no more than four times every year.
6.2 Meetings shall be deemed to be quorate when not less than third of the current membership is present.
6.3 Members who have a personal interest, whether direct or indirect, in a matter to be discussed by the Forum should disclose that interest at the meeting. A personal interest is defined as one which might affect a member’s wellbeing, financial position, or business, or that of a relative or friend, to a greater extent than that of other council taxpayers, rate payers or other inhabitants of the area. Personal interests will be recorded in the minutes but will not prohibit that member from taking part in the discussion of that item.
6.4 The agenda will be made available to the public no less than three working days prior to a meeting being held.
6.5 Copies of the agenda for each meeting, along with the papers and minutes will be made available on the Appointing Authority’s website for a period of 2 years after the meeting.
6.6 The timing of meetings and the venue should take account of the needs and preferences of NNLAF members and others who may attend the meetings. Where appropriate the NNLAF will vary the location and timing of meetings to enable a larger number and range of people to attend.
6.7 Matters can be put to the vote, but this should be seen as a last resort.
7. Public access to meetings
7.1 The meetings will be open to the public, but people may be excluded if necessary to prevent disorderly conduct or misbehaviour.
7.2 Members of the public may submit questions to the NNLAF. The questions asked by members of the public must be on a subject pertinent to the Terms of Reference of NNLAF. The questions must be submitted to the secretariat at least one working day prior to the NNLAF meeting.
7.3 Members of the public who wish to speak on a particular subject may do so for a maximum of 3 minutes.
7.4 Observers cannot vote on or take part in the decision-making.
7.5 A representative of the Rights of Way section, North Northamptonshire Council, shall attend all meetings as an observer.
8. Secretary
8.1 The Appointing Authority will nominate an officer to act as the interface with the NNLAF and fulfil the responsibilities of a secretary.
8.2 The Secretary will, in conjunction with the Chair, be responsible for the overall administration of the Forum including organising the meetings, drafting the minutes, producing the draft annual report and liaising with neighbouring forums and the appointing authority.
8.3 Secretary Roles and Expectations
8.3.1 Acting as the point of contact for anyone wishing to contact the NNLAF and forwarding information on to the chairperson and / or members as appropriate.
8.3.2 Receiving, prioritising, and processing consultations and requests for advice.
8.3.3 Assisting the chairperson and members in conducting meetings to comply with statutory requirements.
8.3.4 Assisting with production of the forward work programme and annual report.
8.3.5 Ascertaining the appropriate named individual or team to which NNLAF advice should be sent and sending that advice.
8.3.6 The secretary will request feedback at the time of submitting advice to a body to which section 94(4) of the Act applies, and then follow up the request if necessary, so that the results can be reported to the NNLAF.
8.3.7 Liaising with the Appointing Authority regarding financial management of the NNLAF and processing of members expenses.
9. Annual report
9.1 The NNLAF shall prepare an annual report on its work which the Appointing Authority will make available online.
10. Expenses
10.1 Reasonable expenses associated with the normal work of the Forum may be reimbursed; but only in respect of:
- travel and subsistence costs; and
- any expenses of arranging for the care of their children or dependants
10.2 Expenses will be paid at the rates payable to members of the Appointing Authority as set out in the Scheme of Allowances. Mileage claims will be managed by the Secretary.
11. Complaints
11.1 Although NNLAF is an independent advisory body, the Appointing Authority should ensure that NNLAF conducts its business within its statutory remit having regard to the Regulations and Statutory Guidance issued by Government.
11.2 Any complaints about the conduct of the NNLAF or a NNLAF member should be dealt with through the Appointing Authority’s normal complaints procedures.
Membership renewal
The correct administration of the NNLAF means that each member must step down and be re-elected after a maximum of 3 years to keep the group open and fair.
Membership of the NNLAF may be applied for from Northamptonshire Highways, whose responsibility it is to ensure there is a reasonable balance in the representation of the interests of public access user groups and landowner and occupier groups.
Members must serve in a personal capacity to represent public interests rather than the views of any particular organisation.
For an application form please email [email protected].
Job description - Forum member role and purpose
Post title
NNLAF member.
Salary
This is a voluntary post, but reasonable expenses associated with the normal work of the forum will be reimbursed in line with the terms of reference for the group.
Accountable to
NNLAF.
Post objectives
To work co-operatively and positively with other members of the NNLAF to give advice on securing improved access to the countryside for open-air recreation in ways that address social, economic, and environmental interests.
Main duties
- To consider and give advice to North Northamptonshire Council on the preparation and delivery of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan.
- To consider and where appropriate give advice on the management of the rights of way network in respect of more general strategic issues.
- To consider and give advice on the development and implementation of wider access and related strategies e.g. The North Northamptonshire Council Local Transport Plan.
- To assist Natural England, the Forestry Commission or other associated government organisations in respect of local restrictions on access to the countryside.
Person specification - Selection criteria for members of the forum
Requirements | Essential | Desirable |
Skills | Good communication and inter-personal skills at all levels. Ability to work constructively with competing interests. Effective networking outside of the Forum meetings to represent the views of others. | Proven ability to liaise with wider interests, media government agencies. Computer literacy, including the internet. |
Knowledge | Knowledge of countryside issues, particularly in North Northamptonshire. Knowledge of access to the countryside and the interaction between recreation, land management, conservation, and other interests. | Knowledge of central or local government procedures, non-government organisations, or similar organisations. Knowledge of relevant legislation |
Experience | Experience of dealing with and discussing strategic issues. Experience of working in partnership and consensus and liaison with a variety of groups and interests. Experience of chairing formal public meetings. | Demonstrate contribution to countryside access. |
Personal competencies | Diplomatic, assertive and team worker. Willingness to commit to the forum meetings and training event for the term of appointment. | N/A |
NNLAF explanatory notes
Thank you for your interest in the NNLAF.
The following information will give an insight into the status, role, and responsibilities of a local access forum.
The local access forum for Northamptonshire
The function of the NNLAF is to advise North Northamptonshire Council and any other relevant authorities and organisations, on the improvements of public access to land in the county for the purposes of open-air recreation and the enjoyment of the area.
As North Northamptonshire has very limited open access, the development and modernisation of the right of way network through the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIP) will be the most important item for the NNLAF to advice upon.
The NNLAF also has a strategic role in advising on rights of way and wider public access to the countryside, not just through the improvement plan but also on other council agendas.
Members of the NNLAF have the opportunity to scrutinise the activities of all bodies in the area which have a role in delivering access to the countryside and LAF’s in general are seen as being the most influential initiative in the balanced management of access since the current framework was established by the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.
Status of the local access forum
The forum in a statutory advisory body established by, and responsible to, North Northamptonshire Council. Although it does not have the power to make decisions, the advice it can give will strongly influence how the authority and organisations like natural England (the government’s advisor on the natural environment) perform their executive functions in relation to access to the countryside.
The NNALF operates openly, and meetings are advertised in advance and available to the public. Agendas, papers, and minutes of meetings are also publicly available. Role and responsibilities of the forum.
The NNLAF have the primary purpose of giving advice to the authorities and to the countryside agency on how to make the countryside more accessible and enjoyable for open air recreation, in ways which address social, economic, and environmental interest.
It will encourage and assist the provision of access and give strategic advice on issues of particular local relevance. The forum is able to improve liaison between interest groups and to have links with other related forums.
The NNLAF is expected to give advice of the following topics:
a) Improvement of the rights of way and wider access network, in particular through the through the statutory rights of way improvement plan.
b) Integration of the rights of way network into related strategies to maximise its social, economic, and environmental potential.
c) Implementation, management, and review of the statutory right of access to the countryside.
d) Develop a constructive and inclusive approach to the improvement of recreational access to the countryside.
e) Respect local circumstances and different interests while operating within national guidance.
f) Provide advice on issues of principle and good practise which is consistent with national guidance.
g) Engage in constructive debate and seek consensus wherever possible.
h) Where consensus is not possible, make clear the nature of differing views and suggest how they might be resolved.
Improving the rights of way network
Section 60 of the countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 requires authorities to prepare Rights of Way Improvements Plans which review the adequacy of their rights of way and which propose action to secure an improved network. Statutory guidance indicates that the improvements plans should form part of the Northamptonshire Council’s Local Transportation Plan.
The LAF gives strategic advice to the authorities on:
a) Reviews of rights of way, including the extent to which local rights of way meet the present and likely future needs of the public.
b) The draft improvement plan prior to publication.
c) The results of public consultation on the draft plan and any particularly significant issues which have arisen from it.
d) The priorities for the action plans which follow from the review.
e) Progress in implementing the action plan.
Implementation, management and review of the statutory right of access to the countryside
The LAF advises on and assists in the introduction, management, and review of the statutory right of access to the countryside. This task varies between authorities according to the amount of open countryside and registered common land in the area covered by the NNLAF.
In producing maps showing registered common land and open countryside across the country (ie mountain, moorland, heath and down) Natural England will be able to:
a) Produce guidance on procedures it will follow for mapping registered common land and open countryside.
b) Consult widely on draft maps showing the boundaries of registered common land and open countryside.
c) Produce provisional maps which take account of representations and advice made during consultation, for submission to the Secretary of State.
d) On confirmation or modification by the Secretary of State, issue conclusive maps.
Members of the LAF will be able to use local knowledge and contacts to help the authority and its contractors to take full account of local information in the production of maps.
Natural England and National Park Authorities have the power to close land or to apply restrictions to the right of access, on the grounds of nature conservation or heritage, specific land management needs, danger from fire, or other danger to the public in accordance with the legislation. In relation to the application of local restrictions to access, the LAF will be asked by the agencies to:
a) Identify any local issues that need to be taken into account in deciding how best to implement the advice received from English Nature and English Heritage, and in considering applications on land management grounds.
b) Advise on the consistency and general approach that the agency is taking.
c) Help to identify best practice for the management of restrictions in the area.
It may not be possible for the government agencies to consult with the LAF on each application for local restrictions, especially when relatively short notice is given. However, they will aim to consult LAFs on applications for all extensive or longer-term local restrictions to access.
Membership
Membership covers a wide cross section of local interests in the countryside and a range of expertise. The LAF should not be capable of being dominated by any single interest group, or any coalition of like interests.
For effective working and to ensure that they can provide the advice required, the LAF normally will consist of between 17 and 22 people.
New Members will be appointed according to clear criteria which are set out in the terms of reference for the LAF. All members have sufficient experience of the countryside in Northamptonshire to be able to make an informed and constructive contribution to improving access provision.
Members bring a wide range of experience, including:
a) Recreational use, e.g. walking, cycling, riding and vehicular.
b) Land management, e.g. tenants, landowners and occupiers and others with an interest in the land.
c) Nature conservation, heritage, tourism, health, business, the voluntary sector, and transport etc.
Before appointment, members are asked to confirm:
a) Their support for the positive purpose of the NNLAF.
b) Their commitment to working within the terms of reference and achieving the aims of the LAF through constructive working with other members.
c) That they are able to devote the necessary time to attend meetings, training and to network with a wide range of interests outside meetings.
Members are appointed for up to three years, with a maximum period of six years for any one individual, unless exceptional circumstances make it pertinent to retain the services of that member. The chairing and balance of membership will be regularly reviewed to ensure that the LAF remains relevant to the needs of the area. The reappointment process will be carried out over a period of time to ensure continuity of operation of the LAF.
Members are appointed on a voluntary basis, but will be able to claim reasonable expenses for attendance at meetings, training events and for field visits.
The Chair of the NNLAF may invite observers to meetings of the LAF. Observers will be allowed to participate in meetings at the invitation of the Chair. Representatives of Northamptonshire County Council and Natural England may be present as observers. Other observers may include representatives of district councils and expert staff from statutory agencies (eg English Nature, English Heritage, and the Environment Agency). Observers will not be able to dominate the views and advice of the appointed members of the NNLAF.
Administration
North Northamptonshire Council provides a Secretary for the NNLAF. The Secretary will ensure that premises are available for meetings which are suitable for accommodating public attendance. The LAF will be advised by, and receive reports from, officers of the authorities.
The Secretary will:
a) Arrange and promote meetings.
b) Agree meeting agendas with the Chair and circulate agendas and papers for the meetings.
c) Help the Chair to run the NNLAF according to the statutory guidance.
d) Produce minutes of meetings.
e) Facilitate the provision of information to the public through a newsletter, press releases, a website, or any combination of those means.
f) Produce a short annual report for the authorities and the Countryside Agency.
The Secretary is the link between the NNLAF, Natural England and neighbouring LAFs. The secretary will report, as appropriate, the views of the LAF to the Agency and to the relevant departments, committees and executives of the authorities and will report back to the NNLAF on any responses or action taken following their advice.
Meetings
Meetings will be public and advertised in advance. The Chair will determine the public’s right to ask questions and the procedure for doing so. A record of each meeting will be made available to the public.
Reference
The Local Access Forums (England) Regulations 2002 and Guidance issued by Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in July 2002. Section 94 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 places a duty on highway authorities and National Park authorities to establish an advisory body to be known as a local access forum.
Current membership
Name of member | Interest |
---|---|
Chris Shaw (Chair) | Walking |
Claire Marshall (Vice Chair) | Horse riding |
Andrew Knapman | Walking |
Bob Entwistle | Walking |
Fiona Rawlings | Walking |
John Shenfield | Horse riding |
Kathi Barker | Accessibility and Disabled Users |
Tony Hoyle | Parish Path Warden |
Tony Skirrow | Off Road Cycling |
Lesley Sambrook-Smith - Representative Northamptonshire County Association of Local Councils (Northants CALC) | N/A |
Members of the public are usually entitled to attend meetings, however, we are currently looking to welcome new members to the Forum.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the NNLAF, please contact the Secretary using the details in the further information section below.
Next meetings
Wednesday 26 March 2025, 6pm, for those attending in person the full address is Wellingborough Highways Depot, 26-28 Bradfield Road, Finedon Road Industrial Estate, Wellingborough. NN8 4HB. Upon arrival, please report to reception towards the middle of the main building.
Wednesday 11 June - 6pm
Wednesday 17 September - 6pm
Wednesday 26 November - 6pm
Agendas and meeting minutes
Minutes of meeting of North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum (NNLAF)
At 6pm to 7:45pm on 27 November 2024, in Kier Highways Depot, Wellingborough / Microsoft Teams
Present:
- Chris Shaw (CS)
- Bob Entwistle (BE)
- Laura Marks (LM)
- Robert Carroll (RC)
- Jules Smith (JSmth)
- Claire Marshall (CM)
- Jake Sheridan (JS)
- John Shenfield (J Shen)
- Andrew Knapman (AK)
- David Prior (DP)
- George Massingham (GM)
Elected Members in attendance: None
Apologies for absence:
- Cllr Matt Binley (Cllr MB)
- Ben Wright (BW)
- Sarah Cureton (SC)
- Tim Callaway (TC)
- Steve Fowler (SF)
- Fiona Rawlings (FR)
- Tony Skirrow (TS)
- Tony Hoyle (TH)
- Graeme Kane (GK)
- Kathryn Barker (KB)
- Lucy Hawes (LH)
- Lesley Sambrook-smith (LSS)
1.0 Welcome and apologies
CS: Chair, NNLAF welcomed all to the meeting and offered apologies as listed above. As part of the introduction to the Forum meeting, he invited each person to say a few words about themselves and their leisure interest.
2.0
2.1 Agreement of minutes from the meeting held on 18 September 2024
CS: The minutes of March meeting were proposed, seconded, and accepted by the meeting. However, it was brought to the attention of the forum that there were a few minor spelling errors in the previous minutes of 18 September 2024, these are to be rectified going forward.
Action: JSmth Kier
2.2 Matters arising - Parish path wardens
CS: On behalf of TH: Asked who do we contact if we wanted to contact parish path wardens in adjacent parishes, how many are there, also how many parish path wardens are in post?
BE: Requested an update on whether Kier have complied and updated list of parish path wardens and have they been written too.
Action: Kier to provide update at next meeting re: process and no. of parishes etc.
Isham Bypass.
BE: Requested update regarding funding for the proposed Isham bypass but with the absence of Councillor Binley, this would have to be held over to the next meeting in March 2025.
Action: Cllr Binley to provide update at next meeting
Training of volunteers.
Without GK: in attendance it was difficult to progress this matter following on from the previous September meeting. See item 7 on page 5 of Minutes. However, BE (assisted by CS) referred to recent online discussions with the Ramblers Head Office (Helen Bates - Senior Path Improvement Officer) regarding this matter. Following similar representations from other ramblers groups nationwide, Helen is looking to develop a model template agreement early in the New Year once her other Ramblers orientated projects had been completed. Other groups had agreements in place with the potential to create a model which others (groups) can use. Once this model agreement was in draft form then Helen would share it with Graeme Kane (GK). This approach meant that volunteers exercised tasks under Ramblers insurance.
Action: Action for discussion BE/CS/GK
BE/CS: Both stressed we (Ramblers/BHS) are seeking low level work of cutting back undergrowth across paths and replacing waymark discs.
Future discussion at next March meeting.
Action: Item on Agenda Action (Kier) for March 2025
RC: Discussed further with the Forum on how future related training could be implemented and what tools would be needed in the form of some low-level training.
Waendel Walk and Wellbeing Walk Officer (Wellingborough Town Council - WTC)
BE: Reiterated the matter raised at the meeting in September and as of yet there was no input from the WTC Wellbeing Walk Officer in relation to the ongoing planning for the Waendel walk in May next year. Matter difficult to resolve in GK’s absence.
Action: GK
3.0 Members declarations of interest
There were no declarations of interest from around the room and from onscreen.
4.0 Notifications of requests to address the meeting
As there are no members of the public in attendance there no requests to address the meeting.
5.0 Items to address in the meeting
Local Walking and Cycling Infrastructure Plans
DP: provided update as follows:
5.1 Active Travel including updates on LCWIPs
a. Wellingborough and Rushden.
DP: Explained the LCWIP report for Wellingborough and Rushden was produced by Pell Frischmann, Kier and Brightwayz. The Final public consultation on the contents of the LCWIP took place during September and October. Following a final review; the draft Wellingborough and Rushden Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan will be put before Executive for final approval and adoption (anticipated to be March 2025).
b. Corby and Kettering.
Some initial design work has been undertaken during 2024 on the highest priority routes within the Kettering LCWIP. We are currently examining options for how the various route proposals within these LCWIPs could be progressed and funded.
CS: What timescales are you working on for these projects; for example, S106 monies?
DP: We must identify what funding sources can be used for each plan, then we can go forward.
CS: Thanked DP for his report.
5.2 Definitive Map
Report on current outstanding DMMOs.
A large spreadsheet of DMMO cases was handed out at the start of the meeting for the benefit to Members to understand GM’s explanation.
GM: Explained that the top green section are cases allocated to himself and the blue section are cases allocated to Dan Wilde.
The 2nd block of green is unallocated DMMO applications, correctly made, with forms filled correctly and landowners notified.
Yellow and Orange are applications not yet served on the landowner including applications for DMMO’s on existing highway. These will not be allocated at this stage.
The 4 green Public Path Orders are waiting to be allocated to an officer.
However, GC13 in Braybrooke has now been allocated to Dan Wilde to move forward to completion.
The single grey one was objected to and needs picking up at some stage.
CS: Asked how long will the back log take to catch up?
GM: Now Daniel Wilde - Assistant Definitive Map Officer has returned to work, he and Daniel should be able to move the current case load further forward.
GM: Gave an update on case number 151- Gt - Doddington - Wollaston.
GM: Will write to landowners and await a reply.
BE: Suggested that this should be followed up imminently given the length of time this case had been ongoing - certainly before Christmas - as it would appear the affected landowners had been very reticent in replying.
For each meeting, GM confirmed he will send the number of outstanding DMMO’s from the previous meeting, the number of completed, received, currently being dealt with and the number still outstanding.
This would give an indication of whether progress is being made or not. This would also give you a quicker overview of how things are going.
New applications - 0
Newly allocated cases - 1 (Braybrooke GC13)
In progress - 6
Completed cases - 0
Burton Latimer UA1 - objection received, redrafting Order
Brampton Ash - creation Order to replace DMMO. Order drafted
Cranford FG17 - legal issues
Rothwell UH2, UH17 - nearing completion, currently with Legal (Pathfinder)
Ashton / Polebrook ME5, NP17 - BHS and landowner in negotiations
Irthlingborough - currently with landowners
CS: Thanked GM: For his report.
5.3 Rights of Way Inspection Report for North Northamptonshire
RC: Gave a Brief overview of the inspection report from SC: To the Forum was provided with a current report of works raised and completed, they were also provided with a picture report of all jobs completed regarding stiles, gates, and bridges. The Forum was informed a new RoW Officer George Foster would be joining the team in early December, taking over the role from Andy Pettis.
Any questions for the RoW team please use email the NNLAF inbox.
CS: Thanked RC: For the report.
6.0 Projects update
6.1 Kettering Energy Park - Burton Latimer - Rights of Way and Ramblers
CS: Gave a brief update on the plans for the proposed Kettering Energy Park. He confirmed that the title ‘Energy Park’ was a misnomer with the proposed development comprising chiefly of warehousing, some solar panel farm development, and office/light industrial units. The proposed development site was to the east of Burton Latimer but west of the A510, A14 to Finedon Road. Formal consultation had taken place on the Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Opinion with key stakeholders in accordance with EIA Regulations.
CS: Confirmed there are several Public Rights of Way (PROW) located within the vicinity of the site. All the PROW will be affected by the development proposals. CS: Had responded to the Scoping Opinion that the impact of the development on walkers and horse riders, including visual intrusion, must be fully considered.
6.2 Green Hill Solar Farm, North Northamptonshire
CS: and BE: Updated the Forum on information about the proposal of the solar panel farm and how it will affect the rights of way network in that area. Both CS: and BE: Had recently attended public exhibition events at Grendon and in Wellingborough respectively.
With the aid of a large A0 1:25,000 plan, CS explained the location of the solar panel sites, namely in the parishes of Old and Walgrave, Holcot, Sywell and Mears Ashby and Bozeat and Lavendon in Milton Keynes.
CS: Then confirmed that the consultation material had stated that “no permanent closures to public rights of way would be required; however, there may temporary closures during construction and decommissioning”. CS: Confirmed that he had made representation that there should be a wide corridor along the line of right of way/bridleway with landscaping implanted early prior to construction but allowing for construction access. BE: Confirmed he understood that this corridor would be 20 metres wide. CS: Also stated that the Solar Farm developer would also be implemented permitted paths. JShen requested that such paths be signposted accordingly.
CS: Confirmed that feedback was required by 19 December - Green Hill Solar Farm website or [email protected]
6.3 Update on November NNC Greenway projects
Forum was presented with a report from Lucy Hawes
Rushden to Wellingborough - Habitat Regulation Assessment which will take 2 years is started Tuesday 19 November. Flood Risk Assessments started 12 November 2024. A provisional timeline for the completion of both is Autumn 2026/ early 2027 for planning permission to then be sought.
Wellingborough to Wollaston via Irchester - identified in both Greenway and the LCWIP. Looking to use S106 monies to pay for the design study - awaiting confirmation from Developer Contribution Board.
Braybrooke to Market Harborough - funds have been secured work is being carried out. Launch early 2025. Great case study of willing landowner.
Dingley to Market Harborough - the local community has raised funds towards an off-road walk and cycle way to. The scheme is awaiting Highways Improvement Team to come back regarding work schedule 28 November 2024.
Oundle to Thrapston - landowner on strategic point is proving difficult. Need to review scheme.
King’s Cliffe to the east. King’s Cliffe has been identified in two routes and landowner reluctance is causing options limitations. Again, going to see if Highways Improvements could connect Apethorpe and KC but a small parish again.
Oundle to Warmington - made some applications to further feasibility studies but were not successful. Oundle community keen to support this route. Likewise, Fotheringhay towards Warmington which also fits in with the King’s Cliffe - Warmington route. Same as previous update.
Kettering to Thrapston via Hanwood Park, Cranford and Twywell - discussion stage same as last update.
Greenway Champions - Launch took place on 16 November 11. Initially had 7 champions but only 4 could attend, so LH: Will be meeting them in person over forthcoming weeks.
Scoping works on other routes ongoing but limited due to time - as before.
Active Travel England Rural Guidance to come out mid to late 2025.
Any questions regarding the report, please email Jules.
CS: Thanked LH: In her absence for the report.
7.0 Items requiring a decision
JS: Gave the forum an update on recent engagement events that have been held since the last NNLAF meeting.
Several drop-in sessions had taken place throughout October and November at various town and village libraries in North Northamptonshire. Forum members were circulated with a list of venues prior the start of the Forum meeting.
CS: Thanked JS: For his report.
8.0 Any other business
8.1 There was a discussion among members regarding the timings of the meetings, it was decided that 6pm were the correct time to start the meeting however it should be scheduled for a minimum of an hour and a half taking the end time to 7:30pm.
8.2 RC: Confirmed that Jonathan Pearson was the new Head of Highways at North Northamptonshire Council.
9.0 Date of next meeting
Wednesday 26 March 2025 at 6pm.
Agenda: Wednesday 27 November 6pm to 7:30pm
Location: Kier Highways Depot, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
1: Welcome and apologies for absence - Chris Shaw
2:
- Agreement of minutes from the meeting held on 18 September 2024 - Chris Shaw
- Matters arising - Chris Shaw
3: Members' Declarations of Interest – Chris Shaw, NNC
4: Notifications of requests to address the meeting – All
5: Items to address in the meeting
Reports
- Active Travel including updates on LCWIPs
a. Wellingborough and Rushden - David Prior
b. Corby and Kettering - David Prior - Definitive Map
Report on current outstanding DMMOs - Steve Fowler, NCC - Rights of Way Inspection Report for North Northamptonshire - Sarah Cureton, North Senior, ROW Officer
Other items requesting update
- Kettering Energy Park - Burton Latimer - Rights of Way and Ramblers Response - Chris Shaw
- Green Hill Solar Farm Statutory Consultation - NNC/Chris Shaw
- North Northamptonshire Greenway - Update following Board Meeting on 21 November 2024 - Lucy Hawes
6: Forum Members are formally requested to send such items related matters to the Secretary two days before the meeting.
7: Any other business
Attached sheet
8: Date of next meeting
- Wednesday 26 March 2025 - To Be Confirmed - All to Note
Minutes of meeting of North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum (NNLAF)
At 6pm to 7:45pm on 18 September 2024, in Kier Highways Depot, Wellingborough / Microsoft Teams
Present:
- Chris Shaw (CS) (Chair)
- Bob Entwistle (BE)
- Andrew Knapman (AK)
- Tony Hoyle (TH)
- Laura Marks (LM)
- Robert Carroll (RC)
- Ben Wright (BW)
- Sarah Cureton (SC)
- Andy Pettis (AP)
- Jules Smith (JS)
- Steve Fowler (SF)
- David Prior (DP)
- Lesley Sambrook-Smith (LSS)
- Graeme Kane (GK)
- Stephen Linley (SL)
- John Shenfield (JS)
- Lucy Hawes (LH)
Elected Members in attendance:
- Cllr Matthew Binley (Cllr MB)
Apologies for absence:
- Claire Marshall (CM)
- Tim Callaway (TC)
- Kathryn Barker (KB)
- Tony Skirrow (TS)
- George Massingham (GM)
- Edith Shah (ES)
- Fiona Rawlings (FS)
1.0 Welcome and apologies
CS: Chair - NNLAF welcomed all to the meeting and offered apologies as listed above. Chair also welcomed Stephen Linley (SL) as a new member.
2.0
2.1 Agreement of minutes from the meeting held on 12 June 2024
CS: The minutes of March meeting were proposed by Cllr Binley, seconded by Bob Entwistle, and accepted by the meeting. However, it was brought to the attention of the forum that there are typos in the minutes and are to be rectified.
2.2 Matters arising
BE: Asked what actions are being taken by NNC for and Kier to work more closely with the Waendel Walk.
GK: Responded with an awareness of a closer working relationship between Kier and the walk but unsure who the point of contact for both Kier Rights of Way Team and NNC. He questioned what support was being referred to due to the Waendel Walk already receiving support from the council and Kier, and this may seem a communication issue.
BE: Answered that the support the walk needed was to help with road closures and route planning.
CS: Stated that he passed the relevant information regarding Waendel Walk contacts at Wellingborough Town Council to Kier after the Rights of Way user group meeting.
GK: Enquired if there were any other parties who needed to be involved.
BE: Advised that the Wellingborough Town Council and NNC needed to be involved along with individual landowners, and that this wasn’t being done and said that would be satisfactory but that he was also aware the wellbeing walks officer had said they didn't see promoting the Waendel Walk as being any part of their role. GK agreed to go away and raise that.
Action: GK
BE: Raised concerns that they were already planning the next Waendel Walk and that at this time there was no input from the Wellbeing Walk officer at Wellingborough Town Council.
GK: Thanked BE for his input and agreed to make the Town Council aware of the support needed for the Waendel Walk from the Wellbeing walk team.
On a separate matter SL raised an issue regarding limited access to the embankment for disabled fisher people, he stated he would like some guidance as to when and where it is appropriate to discuss this issue?
CS: Explained to SL that there is a rights of way user group meeting where access issues are discussed and are looked at in detail, this NLAF meeting is to discuss strategic issues which affect access to the countryside as opposed to points of detail. Which we tend to address in our rights of way user group meetings that are held two weeks prior to NLAF meetings, we will send you an invite to the next rights of way user group meeting when a date has been confirmed. CS then thanks SL for raising this issue.
3.0 Members declarations of interest
CS: No declarations of interest.
4.0 Notifications of requests to address the meeting
CS: There were no requests to address the meeting.
5.0 Items to address in the meeting
5.1 Active Travel including updates on LCWIPs
a. Wellingborough and Rushden
DP: Public consultation on the contents of that report(?) is currently taking place within the NNC consultation port portal. He then explained how to find and access the consultation portal and how to comment on its contents. There are 31 route proposals, 3 of which they are planning to produce for North Northamptonshire, and they will cover all our urban areas. He encouraged everybody to participate in the consultation due to there being no point in the council deciding where these things should go and then nobody using them.
LH: Commented that Wellingborough and Rushden Greenway is working alongside the work DP is doing with the LCWIPS.
b. Corby and Kettering
CS: Invited DP to give us a summary of his report.
DP: Explained that Kettering and Corby local cycling and walking infrastructure work plans are approved and adopted NNC documents. These are popularly known as LCWIPS. We have done initial design work on priority work routes within the Kettering LCWIP, and we are in the process of examining options on how these various proposals can be progressed and funded.
CS: Thanked DP for his report and LH for her brief update.
5.2 Definitive map report on current outstanding DMMOs
SF: Explained that the spreadsheet is colour coded and shows the current cases being worked on, he then went on to say that they have 2 full time officers, 1 whom is currently on 6-month sick leave.
Green cases are being worked on by GM, all have been started and are at various stages.
Blue cases have not progressed as quickly due to DW absence but are making progress.
Light green ones are the 12 received cases that have not been allocated.
Yellow and orange highlighted ones have not been submitted through the correct processes, i.e. the landowners have not been made aware or incorrect forms have been submitted.
1 ongoing case has been objected to and this cannot be processed until the objection has been dealt with.
Since the last meeting we have 3 completed cases in North Northamptonshire. Earls Barton had a temporary mineral diversion which has now been completed. SF also explained a legal events order was and how NNC have carried their first one out. A legal events order is “Any order that has gone through a diversion order or completed DMMO’s.” It is a legal process that must be followed which formally adds routes onto the definitive map. We are hoping by the end of the year to complete a consultation allowing NNC to create their own legal definitive map. The last consultation was with Northamptonshire County Council, so the map at present is a shared version which is between NNC and WNC.
CS: Thanked SF for his report.
TH: Suggested that for each meeting, the forum had the number of outstanding DMMO’s from the previous meeting as follows:
- Number of DMMOs outstanding from previous meeting.
- Number of DMMOs completed since the previous meeting.
- New DMMOs received since the previous meeting.
- Number of DMMOs being dealt with.
- Number of DMMOs still outstanding.
The difference between 1 and 5 would indicate whether progress is being made in dealing with the DMMO backlog and hence help to identify any action that might be necessary. Cllr Binley gave his support on this way forward.
SF: However, it, won’t show a true impression of where we are with some cases. It was acknowledged that although this was a perfectly sensible suggestion but recognition in terms of delivery against the second DM officer not available.
CS: Thanked the forum for their input and agreed this proposal with TH.
5.3 Rights of Way Inspection Report for North Northamptonshire
AP: He highlighted some issues regarding bridges, gates, and styles in parishes including Harrington, Strixton, Wollaston, Bozeat and Grendon. We have also sent letters to landowners, improved styles and improved mowing and hedge cutting.
CS: Thanked the rights of way team for their work south of Woodford, towards Woodford Mill, for their work on the Nene Way and clearance of vegetation.
CS: Thanked AP for his report.
6.0 Projects update
6.1 Greenway - Rushden (Ditchford Lane to Wellingborough)
CS: Invited LH to take over to talk about her Greenway report.
LH: Reported:
- Rushden to Wellingborough - Habitat Regulation Assessment which will take 2 years is starting in October and November. Flood Risk Assessments will also be done in parallel - a provisional timeline for the completion of both is autumn 2026 and early 2027 for planning permission to then be sought.
- Wellingborough to Wollaston via Irchester - identified in both Greenway and the LCWIP - NNC looking to use S106 monies to pay for the design study.
- Braybrooke to Market Harborough - funds have been secured and work to start soon date to be arranged - this is part of route 1 identified in strategy.
- Dingley to Market Harborough - the village is working hard and has raised funds towards an off - road walk and cycle way to Market Harborough - they need assistance from both NNC and Leicestershire County Council to get a crossing over the A6 - also, NNC trying to get scheme on the Highway Improvement Programme, but it is a small parish and falls under the threshold for funding but efforts continuing.
- Oundle to Thrapston scheme - positive discussion with some landowners.
- King’s Cliffe to the east - King’s Cliffe has been identified in two routes and landowner reluctance is causing options limitations - again, going to see if Highways Improvement Programme provide a scheme which could connect Apethorpe and Kings Cliffe but a small parish as with Dingley above and relevant issues - this is a theme which hinders both the villages and the wider tourism possibilities.
- Kettering to Thrapston via Hanwood Park (large housing development), Cranford and Twywell - still at feasibility discussion stage.
- Collaborating with neighbouring authorities on cross border initiatives e.g. Oundle to Peterborough and Market Harborough to Peterborough and King’s Cliffe to Stamford.
LH: Confirmed a Greenway champion is someone that advocates and the supports the policy of a greenway scheme. There are 33 routes that have been identified in the Greenway strategy, and a Greenway champion may propose and advise in detail on the routes. They may be involved with landowners and visit locations I am unable to visit because of limited time.
LH: Attended the Active Travel England conference and established good dialogue with other Greenway teams throughout the country. She confirmed with Buckinghamshire, they are doing a study that has been funded by the Transport Vision for the Future. This looks at how rural routes can be delivered with landowners. There are still a few authorities which are threatening landowners with compulsory purchase orders, but the correct approach, but some authorities have more budget and power to do this.
BE: Asked if LH knew if anyone from the authority is actively working on a safe cycling and walking route between Wellingborough and Northampton. Is it intended as a proposed greenway.?
LH: Confirmed it is identified in the Wellingborough to Rushden LCWIP. She confirmed she had a watching brief with DP but their time was limited having to spend considerable time on the remaining 33 routes. We will wait to see how the prioritisation goes with the W-R LCWIP consultation, and we can revisit this route. If it gets identified as a priority, then I can support DP on the scheme.
BE: Stated It links two major centres of population, and it would be well used if it was a route in place. He confirmed it ought not to be missed between the various initiatives and does need to be prioritised in some way.
DP: confirmed and advised this route is identified within the Wellingborough and Rushden area, LCWIP, He is working with West Northamptonshire Council as they have also identified the same scheme within the Northampton LCWIP. Both authorities are engaged jointly to establish a connection.
BE: Stated there is a cycle way from Billing through to the town centre. Most that route is in north Northampton, there is a section that is missing. He was aware of land ownership issues and therefore not straightforward but does need to be prioritised.
DP: Confirmed he was seeking the most appropriate solution, which would be more likely to be able to obtain funding.
BE: Thanked LH and DP for their explanation.
CS: Thanked LH for her report.
6.2 A14 and A45 Trunk Road update
TC: Submitted a written a report which was briefly read by CS in his absence; stating, matters were evolving with the new Transport Secretary in place with updates on individual schemes nationally, not just within North Northamptonshire.
Hopefully, TC can appear at the meeting in December where he'll be able to give a better feel about any sort of potential improvements or proposed improvements for the A45 and the A14 in North Northamptonshire.
6.3 A509 Crossing at Wilby Roundabout - Update
GK: Having previously eluded at the meeting on 12 June, confirmed with budgetary constraint a crossing across the A509 at Wilby was unlikely.
7.0
7.1 Voluntary agreement and training of volunteers
GK: This is a matter which is going on in parallel with our colleagues in the West Northamptonshire local access forum, following a meeting on 12 January with officers and Nick Henstock from West Northamptonshire.
CS: We spoke about the rights of way network and how we could assist the authority with various low tasks, such as clearance of overgrown vegetation and the replacing of the faded way marker discs. What is Kier position on how matters are with yourselves on this voluntary agreement?
GK: This is an issue that has been discussed at considerable length and we are pleased that you are keen to, as you say to release the energy and enthusiasm of the ramblers in that we very much welcome. It would be great to be able to enable you to do something, however, we need to be mindful of legal and who would be liable.
There are several models around the country. One of them I understand relies on it being members of the ramblers themselves could undertake, GK suggested a local service agreement (LSA) with voluntary parties and therefore, his understanding is that they would have insurance through the ramblers and therefore that that's where the liability would sit and they would be covered by the Ramblers Association rather than by the council, which is perhaps one model that we could look at.
I remember last time when we were talking, you were not keen on a longer training process for volunteers and you thought that might be a barrier for them taking up those sorts of activities, which I can understand.
So, we are mindful that that is not the route you want to go down.
So, there is somewhere where we can work with, say the ramblers and if they are able to have their members as volunteers, then we can suggest the types of work that they could undertake. But it would be very low-level work.
Kier offered some very low-level basic training that gets over the insurance point of view from their perspective.
If it means going down the second one, where Kier provides some sort of low-level training, this would potentially be a way forward.
WNC are looking at just that model, but instead of it being an agreement with individuals there could be an agreement between the council and the ramblers. That is the picture that is emerging as the one that is most likely to work. And I can see why that would be the case, and I suggest that is the route that we look to go down as well.
I am happy to speak to Nick and if there is an LSA (Local Service Agreement) or whatever needs to be agreed between the ramblers and the west. Action: GK. We can use something similar between the ramblers and the north, but obviously we would need work directly with the ramblers.
We just need our legal teams to have copies of that insurance.
Action: CS and BE.
GK: We will need to explore whether there is a model of that kind running elsewhere. CS and BE to investigate.
CS: Thanked GK and members for their input.
7.2 Update of rights of way action plan
GK: Stated the local transport plans, policies and strategies were carried over from the former county council were automatically adopted by North Northamptonshire when the council came into being. As an organisation, we are working through all those planned policies and strategies, but it is still an ongoing process. We have done a great deal, but there is more to do. We are currently taking the inspection manual for highways and the asset management plan through the approval process to the NNC Executive. The approval process should be in place towards the end of this calendar year. The Rights of Way Improvement Plan exists as a working plan as it did before, and we can continue to refer to it as such.
BE: We are not asking about an updated strategic plan. We (the ramblers) would like to know if the action plan is coming forward. The RoWIP plan contains several aspirations and because of uncertainty over funding it is worded in such a way that, annually, the council will produce an action plan for the things that you can do that year to try and move towards those aspirations. And the thing that we have been asking for. is an Annual Action Plan.
GK: Stated they (NNC) produce with Kier an Annual Plan for all our highways network where all the maintenance activity that we undertake on the highway and on the Rights of Way network is listed. If there was any improvement in the infrastructure on the rights of way network beyond maintenance, then it would sit within the Annual Plan.
There are currently no capital improvement projects identified within the annual plan on the rights of way. The action plan would simply identify maintenance of the rights of way network which in truth is not really required because this is ongoing in any event.
BE: Stated several years have passed without any specific projects being identified to try and achieve the annual plan. It would seem little progress has been made.
GK: That is frustrating for all of us and comes back to the available budgets. The approach to the highways network and the rights of way network is all around priorities. Safety and reducing risk to the users of both networks is the main priority. There is a great deal to improve on the highways network, but it is a difficult decision to make every year, this is how the annual plan for the highways network evolves. If there was an element on the rights of way network that was not dealing with safety through the maintenance arrangements, then NNC would consider it. We are meeting some of the aspirations within the Rights of Way Improvement Plan.
BE: So, pursuing those is the best prospect and reaching a stage when there can be an Action Plan because some funding has been approved.
GK: If there's funding, then you have an Action Plan. The footbridges at Chester House were prioritised, this project was an expensive infrastructure.
BE: The Rights of Way Improvement Plan said there will be further action plans and we have only seen one produced in the first year.
Cllr MB: Commented it would not be an Action Plan, but an aspiration plan as part of the LCWIPs as and when funding became available for individual schemes.
He confirmed the following where funding was not readily available from Central Government as follows:
- we were expecting £149 million that was promised, by the last government for reallocation funds from cancellation of HS2, stage two, but appears not forthcoming
- we were also expecting a fully funded Isham bypass, costing £122million, but again appears not forthcoming
- we were expecting the money to come through for a mile section of the A43 dualling but again appears not forthcoming
JS: Asked how parish councils can access monies under their ownership?
Cllr MB: Responded by saying that the authority works closely with town and parish councils, especially when it comes to matters like vehicle activated signage. Quite often the parish council approaches us, and we do match funding. There have also been instances whereby the parish councils have funded for roads to be resurfaced.
Cllr MB: Added it is also slightly easier for a town and parish council to raise funds, but town and parish councils are not limited by their course of action They can change their precept every year. Unlike large authorities like North Northamptonshire Council where we are limited. In allocating funding
LSS: Advised that if parish and town councils ever want to consider a project anything, come, and talk to us and we can also help facilitate matters so we know where you can obtain funding. You do not necessarily have to raise it through the precept. We can assist you to find grants. Your new homes bonus potentially could be spent on matters like this, so there is lots of funding streams you can apply for. The key thing is to have a project and to work it into a budget just in case you are fundraising or the new house bonus is falls short. Parish councils should now be looking at budgets for short or long-term projects for the next financial year to present your precept and send that into NNC in January.
There' is a public works loan board borrowing., If there is something that you must want to implement, you can borrow the money as well. But obviously that then puts the burden on the parish or town council to pay back with interest, related to that you' have had from Central Government. To confirm, I am happy to talk to anyone with interest. I look after the funding and the borrowing approvals. In response to a question from CS to clarify, LSS confirmed she was the first point of contact on such matters regarding funding.
BE: Raised a question regarding the matter of Plans within NNC. West Northants recently gave two presentations at the last WNLAF meeting: Local Transport Plan and one regarding the Local Plan. He asked about the current situation on those two Plans within North Northamptonshire Council. What are the prospects of a new Transport Plan and or a new Local Plan coming forward?
GK: Confirmed NNC have Local Plans in place for all four areas. I do not know where the west are with their Local Plans, but we have had plans in our authority area in place for all the previous four districts that we have adopted as ours. We are in the process of starting our preparation of the Local Plan. We are not actually required for new Local Plan for December 2026. We are still operating under the previous county one, but we are in the initial stages of developing our own Local Transport Plan for North Northamptonshire and again at the appropriate time, we would be happy to provide a presentation.
7.3 Future NNLAF meetings and locations
CS: Asked Cllr MB if he was still content to hold meetings here at Wellingborough NNC depot. Cllr MB thought that the turn out tonight is incredibly good, which is a good sign, but would welcome input from members as to whether coming here was convenient for everyone? There are council rooms available if we wanted such as the overspill room next to the chamber in Wellingborough. However, the IT capability in that room is not to the same level that we have here this evening.
CS: Can I just confirm that we are happy to continue to have meetings here?
There was overall consent from the forum to continue to have the meetings here in Wellingborough.
There was a discussion among members regarding the timings of the meetings, it was decided that 6pm would be most appropriate to finish the meeting by 7:30pm.
8.0 Any other business
8.1 Stakeholder events
RC: Stated that Kier is looking to recommence another recruitment campaign by making new posters and arranging a recruitment drive.
8.2 Update on expenses and mileage
RC: Expenses in the terms of reference confirmed submission of claims form once per year with a record of fuel receipts, invoices attached. Expense sheets are available.
8.3 NNLAF email inbox
RC: Stated that we have had some moderate use of the NNLAF inbox, but some members are still In direct contact with the Rights of Way officers, we need to manage the inquiries coming in, this to ensures close control of enquiries and nothing gets missed., we would like to request that all enquires are sent to [email protected] this is monitored every 2 days. All enquires and queries will be dealt with by either the customer team or the NNLAF secretary at Kier.
8.4 Parish path wardens
RS: Stated that Kier has a list of previous parish path wardens; we will write to all. We will also write to the parishes to encourage more volunteers and explain we will conduct a training programme that we have previously conducted, gives new members advice on how to navigate the online reporting system on the NNC website.
Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 27 November 2024 - 6pm
26-28 Bradfield Rd, Finedon Road Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 4HB
Agenda: Wednesday 18 September 6pm to 7pm
Location: Kier Highways Depot, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
1: Welcome and apologies for absence - Chris Shaw
2:
- Agreement of minutes from the meeting held on 12 June 2024 - Chris Shaw
- Matters arising - Chris Shaw
3: Members' Declarations of Interest – Chris Shaw, NNC
4: Notifications of requests to address the meeting – All
5: Items to address in the meeting
Reports
- Active Travel including updates on LCWIPs
a. Wellingborough and Rushden - Chris Shaw
b. Corby and Kettering - David Prior - Definitive Map
Report on current outstanding DMMOs - Steve Fowler, DMT - Rights of Way Inspection Report for North Northamptonshire - Andy Pettis, North, ROW Officer
Other items requesting update
- Greenway - Rushden (Ditchford Lane to Wellingborough) - Chris Shaw
- A14 and A45 trunk road update - Tim Calloway, National Highways
- A509 Crossing at Wilby Roundabout - Update - Graeme Kane
6: Updates
- Voluntary agreement and training of volunteers update - Kier
- Future NNLAF meetings and location - Cllr Matt Binley
- Update of Rights of Way action plan - Graeme Kane
7: Any other business
- Stakeholder events - Items to be discussed - Kier
- Update on expenses and mileage - All
- NNLAF Email Inbox - Kier
8: Date of next meeting
- To be confirmed - All to note
Minutes of meeting of North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum (NNLAF)
At 7:25pm to 8:45pm on June 12, 2024, in Brixworth Depot / Microsoft Teams
Present:
- Chris Shaw (CS)
- Claire Marshall (CM)
- Kathryn Barker (KB)
- Bob Entwistle (BE)
- Andrew Knapman (AK)
- Laura Marks (LM)
- Robert Carroll (RC)
- Ben Wright (BW)
- Sarah Cureton (SC)
- Andy Pettis (AP)
- Jules Smith (JS)
- Steve Fowler (SF)
- David Prior (DP)
- Lesley Sambrook-Smith (LSS)
- Graeme Kane (GK)
Elected Members in attendance:
- Cllr Matthew Binley (Cllr MB)
Apologies for absence:
- Tony Hoyle
- Fiona Rawlings
- Tim Callaway
- Tony Skirrow
- George Massington
- Edith Shah
1.0 Welcome and apologies
CS, Chair, NNLAF, welcomed all to the meeting and offered apologies as listed above.
2.0
2.1 Proposal of new secretary
LM: Introduced as the new Customer experience manager for the north. These meetings are now split from the West and there will no longer be a joint meeting. JS to take over as Secretary for NNLAF.
CS and GK welcomed and adopted JS as the new Secretary.
2.2 Minutes of last meeting
CS: The minutes of March meeting were proposed, seconded, and accepted by the meeting
The minutes of March joint meeting were proposed, seconded, and accepted by the meeting.
2.3 Matters arising
Moved to Item 6, point 3, agreed by CS and GK
Action: Note
Date: N/A
3.0 Members Declarations of Interest
CS: There were no declarations of interest to report.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
4.0 Notifications of requests to address the meeting
CS: There were no requests to address the meeting.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
5.0 Items to be addressed
5.1 Terms of Reference
CS: these have now been agreed with NNLAF and NNC Cabinet and are now on the website.
CS: Amendment needed, section 5.2.
Action: Completed
Date: 21 June 2024
5.2 Active Travel
LCWIPS (Local Cycling Walking Infrastructure Plans)
Included with Agenda as Appendix D
CS: Paraphrased through the update for LCWIP Wellingborough and Rushden
DP: Explained 157 consultation responses are back from the public Kettering and Corby area and a LCWIP draft consultation report is planned for September.
Action: Forum to be updated at next meeting.
5.3 Definitive Map Team
Included with agenda appendix E.
SF: Explained information on spreadsheet and how it is dealt with. SF invited anyone with any specific issues to let him know and he will arrange to discuss those issues. SF briefly explained that there are a number of quite complex issues where an agreement is not forthcoming with landowners.
Action: SF to update at next meeting.
Date: 11 September 2024
5.4 Rights of way report
Included with agenda appendix F.
SC: Explained in depth the procedure of how repairs are prioritised and why they are prioritised on safety.
6.0 Other items requesting updates
6.1 Greenway: Report from Lucy Hawes, Projects Officer
CS: Advised on update, Rushden to Wellingborough and the North Northamptonshire greenway strategy are both going to Council executive in July for adoption. NNC have secured monies for both habitat regulation (HRA) and flood risk assessments (FRA)
HRA to commence October for 2 winter surveys and then follow with 2 summer breeding surveys, which should be completed by August 2026. We will then be in a position to submit a planning application.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
6.2 A14 and A45 Trunk Roads Crossings Update
In TM absence GK reported on the A45 update, he explained there are 2 potential crossing points on the A45, 1 near to Chester House, the other near to Stanwick. Kier and NNC have completed high level feasibility investigations on whether either one of these would be practically possible. These projects have not been fully costed. The estimated cost is anywhere between 3 and 5 million per crossing, costs could also rise due to unexpected issues.
This amount is due to needing an overhead crossing rather than a surface crossing. Realistically the authority hasn’t this kind of money for this project in the near future. GK: explained, priorities and funding can change, but unfortunately at present this project won’t be taken any further until we know if funding will become available.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
6.3 GK: A14
No report on A14
Action: Note
Date: N/A
6.4 GK: A509
Informed the forum that this crossing could be at surface level and therefore would make it considerably cheaper. We currently don’t have any funding in the budget, we would have to rely on external funding, but the likely hood of obtaining external funding for this location is pretty low, despite the local demand. It would not compete with others needing funding on a national scale. I will conclude by saying it is not totally positive news.
Action: Forum to be updated at next meeting.
Date: 11 September 2024
7.0 NNC / WNC Joint Issues
7.1 Voluntary arrangement / Training of volunteers
RC: advised what Kiers position is on volunteer works, what training would be available, and the training would be essential.
CS express his disappointment that an agreement hasn’t been put in place after this was discussed in January.
BE suggested that WNC are in agreement for volunteers to sign a waiver to allow them to do minimal works such as cutting vegetation around styles and gates and installing way marker disc and requested if NNC would consider the same.
GK: Informed the forum that himself and RC had met to discuss and establish a volunteering arrangement. RC will report back to GK by the end of June. GK will review these options, consider it internally and report back to NNLAF, before the next meeting in September.
GK and CS to meet and discuss these findings, then present findings to the forum.
Action: GK to meet with CS
Date: Before next meeting
7.2 Rights of way user group meetings
CS: It was agreed that BW is happy to chair the RWUGM (Rights of way user group meetings)
CS: Opened the questions for discussion on whether the RWUGM should be held before or after the NNLAF meetings, also whether the meeting should be held in Wellingborough depot.
BW and CS to discuss future date and future venue.
Action: BW and CS to discuss
7.3 Future NNLAF meetings
CS: open the floor for discussion on whether meetings should be held in the North (Wellingborough) in the future. RC informed the members that the meeting room at Wellingborough is not very big. Cllr MB offered alternative locations that are owned by the local authority. It was agreed by members after a room discussion that NNLAF meetings will remain at Brixworth depot for the time being.
Action: To discuss at a future date.
Date: None at present.
7.4 Rights of Way Action Plan
CS asked GK to update on the action plan, in relevance to where it now sits. GK reported that him and RC have been liaising on this matter since the last meeting and RC will be providing a draft to the authority by the end of June. It was then stated that would give an opportunity to look at what Kier has pulled together for us to review, once that was done GK was happy for that to be shared to the chair and forwarded to the forum.
BE: Highlighted that West Northamptonshire proposed use of S106 monies or community infrastructure levy monies, with the proposal being funded any major improvements to footpath systems where development was taking place. It was then asked if this is something that North Northamptonshire had or wanted to explore. GK assured that North Northamptonshire have already secured developer contributions in a variety of different forms to enhance the networks, roads obviously but also footways, cycle-ways and similar. It was then confirmed by GK that through the planning process if a development is connected to the network or there is an opportunity to enhance what is already there, we certainly do that. BE expressed hope that the action plan may contain some aspirations that could potentially be funded in that way.
GK: Clarified that the action plan is what we know to be happening, and therefore funded. However, suggested the improvement plan can include a fore-mentioned aspirations to ensure that every opportunity to use the planning process is taken, including, bringing funding or improvements to the existing networks or extensions of those networks.
Action: to discuss at next meeting
Date: 11 September 2024
8.0
8.1 Stakeholders events
The point was raised by CM and BE that the local access forum can have up to 22 members, however, currently only have 10. To counterpart this Cllr MB suggested moving the meetings around North Northamptonshire to allow for better access. Keeping the website up to date with all current information, as suggested by CM this was agreed by the chair. Stakeholders and RC also raised awareness around library drop-ins in which people come and then feedback into their communities about what is happening and where. It was agreed that the website would be kept up to date, including links that help people find access forums.
It was also assured that local parish councils know when events are taking place, the dates, the locations of these events are yet to be decided.
Action: RC more promotion needed.
Date: Before the next meeting.
8.2 Feedback Waendal Walk
BE: Feedback from Waendal Walk; thanked Kier and stated they were very grateful to Kier for sorting out a temporary bridge and providing marshals. BE stated Waendal Walk NNC to work closer with them and asked who they could work with for route planning.
Wellingborough Town council (WTC) advised to send routes to Kier beforehand to eliminate any potential issues. SC: suggested whoever puts the Waendal Walk together could try and contact landowners before the route is planned or organized.
Action: to discuss at next meeting 11 September 2024
8.3 BE: Thanked NNC for the wellbeing walks. It is reported that the NNC wellbeing week went. BE noted he requested the Wellbeing team to promote the Waendal Walk as they should support each other, but this was dismissed by the Wellbeing team which was a surprise.
GK: Thank you for this feedback I will be happy to speak to my counterparts in those areas and have a conversation about that.
8.4 Expenses and mileage
RC: Explained to the forum that they were able to claim for mileage and expenses through claim form, it was agreed that a guidance document would be send out.
Action: JS will facilitate this.
Date: 30 June 2024
8.5 NNLAF email inbox
JS: Explained about the new and upcoming NNLAF inbox. JS to arrange access to this inbox for NNLAF members.
CS: Declared meeting closed at 8:20pm
Dates of future meetings
11 September 2024
4 December 2024
Agenda: Wednesday 12 June 7:15pm to 8:15pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Welcome and apologies for absence - Chris Shaw
- Apologies -Tim Callaway (National Highways)
2:
- Proposal of new secretary - Chris Shaw
- Minutes of last meeting including joint issues - Agreement - All
- Matters Arising - All
3: Members' Declarations of Interest – Chris Shaw, NNC
4: Notifications of requests to address the meeting – All
5: Items to address in the meeting
Reports
- NNLAF - Terms of Reference - Chris Shaw
- Active Travel including updates on LCWIPs
a. Wellingborough/ Rushden - Chris Shaw
b. Corby and Kettering - NNC - Definitive Map
Report on current outstanding DMMOs - Steve Fowler, NNC - Rights of Way Reports for North Northamptonshire - Sarah Cureton, North Senior, ROW Officer
Other items requesting update
- Greenway- Rushden (Ditchford Lane to Wellingborough) - Chris Shaw
- A14 and A45 trunk road matters affecting access and feasibility studies of options for crossings - Update - Tim Calloway, National Highways
6: NNC/WNC Joint Issue
- Voluntary agreement/training of volunteers update - NNC
- Rights of Way user group meetings and future NNLAF meetings - Chris Shaw/Claire Marshall
7: Any other business
- Stakeholder events - Rob Carroll, Kier
- Feedback, Waendel Walking Weekend 17/18/19 May 2024 - All
- Expenses and Mileage - Kier
- NNLAF Email Inbox - Ben Wright
8: Dates of future meetings
- Wednesday 11 September 2024 - All to note
Minutes of meeting of North Northamptonshire Local Access Forum (NNLAF)
At 6pm to 7:05pm on March 13, 2024, in Brixworth Depot / Microsoft Teams
Present:
- Bob Entwistle (BE)
- Chris Shaw (CS)
- Claire Marshall (CM)
- Tony Skirrow (TS)
- Kathryn Barker (KB)
- Tony Hoyle (TH)
- Andrew Knapman (AK)
- Andrew Leighton (AL)
- Yvonne Pogson (YP)
- Graeme Kane (GK)
- George Massingham (GM)
- Daniel Wilde (DW)
- Tim Callaway (TC) – National Highways
Elected Members in attendance:
- Cllr Matt Binley (Cllr MB)
Apologies for absence:
- Fiona Rawlings
Welcome and Apologies
CS, Chair, NNLAF, welcomed all to the meeting and offered apologies as listed above.
Declarations of Interest – CS
There were no declarations of interest to report.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
Election Of Chair and Vice Chair – CS
BE nominated CS as chair of NNLAF. TS seconded this proposal. Members voted CS as chair.
BS nominated CM as vice chair KB seconded this proposal. Members voted CM as vice chair. There were no declarations of interest to report.
AL was nominated and accepted as Secretary of NNLAF.
Minutes of Last Meeting - CS
Minutes were agreed as accurate.
Action: Note
1.1 Update on Resources – All
AL advised that the RoW Team in the North is now fully staffed. There have not been any changes last meeting.
1.6 Update on Projects: All
Trunk Road Crossings: TC gave an update on National Highway proposals for Trunk Road crossings. Only one being investigated at present which is A45 at Stanwick. Investigation to be completed by October. Then consideration to be given for future funding. CS enquired whether a footbridge is being considered. TH commented that this could be expensive.
Greenway: CS circulated a plan showing proposed route. This has the support of Natural England, however, there are some legal issues with trees and the western end of Greenway which is delaying progress at this moment. CS added that National Highways see this as a positive as will encourage cyclists not to use the A45, particularly those accessing the ProLogis Distribution Centre and there should be an update by next meeting in June. TC recommended a bid to National Highways by the NNC Greenway Project Group.
Further information on the Greenway Project.
Active Travel: The report was circulated prior to the meeting. CS provided an overview.
TS enquired whether there were any active travel plans in the East Northants area. GK mentioned feasibility designs for corridor designs. BE asked about LCWips and asked all members to contact the Secretary of their NLAF group about this. CM stated that she has been involved in LCWips in the West and there are lots of opportunities to create sustainable links. TH raised Transition Oundle, and they have a list of current proposals. KB asked if we could ensure that we include disabled users as part of any future consultations which should include LCWips. BE requested that all members of NLAF be informed about and invited to attend workshops in their area.
Definitive Map: GM has talked about a list of DMMOs currently in progress. This list was circulated prior to the meeting. The Issues being dealt with are Desborough airfield. The other DMMOs are mostly old requests which include Corby and Irthlingborough. An assistant has now been recruited.
Standing Orders of Business – All
Nothing to add.
1.7 Reports – All
Copies of reports were circulated prior to the meeting.
AOB – All
Stakeholder Drop-In Events: AL advised that there are fortnightly drop-in events at libraries throughout North Northants from now till end of October. List to be circulated for dates in 2024.
KB to forward details of the Accessibility User Group to AD.
Meeting ended at 7:05pm.
Dates for next meetings
Date: 12 June 2024.
Time: 6pm to 7pm (West Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (North Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Date: 11 September 2024.
Time: 6pm to 7pm (North Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (West Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Date: 4 December 2024
Time: 6pm to 7pm (West Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (North Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Minutes of meeting of West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire Local Access Forums
Joint Issues Meeting
Date of meeting: 13 March 2024
Time: 7:10pm to 7:55pm
Location: Brixworth Depot / Microsoft Teams
Present:
Members in attendance:
- Bob Entwistle (BE)
- Chris Shaw (CS)
- Claire Marshall (CM)
- Tony Skirrow (TS)
- Kathryn Barker (KB)
- Tony Hoyle (TH)
- Andrew Knapman (AK)
Officers In attendance:
- Steve Fowler (SF)
- Angela Davis (AD)
- Yvonne Pogson (YP)
- Lesley Sambrook-Smith (LSS)
- Graeme Kane (NNC)
- George Massingham (NNC)
- Tim Callaway (NH)
- Sarah Clarke (SC)
- Daniel Wilde (DW)
Elected Members in attendance:
- Cllr Matt Binley (Cllr MB)
Apologies for absence:
- Cllr Phil Larratt, Fiona Rawlings
1. Welcome and Apologies
CS welcomed all to the meeting and offered apologies as listed above.
2. Joint Issues
Rights of Way Action Plan
GK confirmed the Plan is being produced. This is agreed each year with Kier. It is likely to focus on maintenance. GK doesn’t anticipate any large projects to be part of the plan.
Input form NLAF would be welcome, budget constraints may mean projects cannot be considered. Some larger projects are planned / designed in one year and then undertaken / built in the next.
NH confirmed West position is similar to North.
BE could Section 106 monies be looked at? GK confirmed this happens as a matter of course.
Action: Chairs to consider how aims of PROWIP might be progressed e.g., potential LAF input into larger development projects and how any section 106 monies could be best spent to improve the rights of way network.
Date: 12 June 2024
Parish Path Wardens
AD couldn’t offer any update.
Action: AD
Date: 31 March 2024
Websites and Interactive Mapping
WNALF and NNLAF Terms of Reference on each Councils website require amendments. NH confirmed WNC Cabinet met on 12 March 2024, LAF was established, and ToR sent to Jacqui Williams.
Action: AD
Date: 31 March 2024
Rights of Way Users Group Meetings
Meetings were held on 30 January 2024. It was felt the split worked well, with Ollie Sibley and Ben Wright (Delivery Managers) Chairing.
AD suggested the Rights of Way Users Group meetings should be held after the NLAF meetings; this was agreed by members.
Action: AD
Date: 31 March 2024
Street Doctor
Defects or problems on the network must be reported via Street Doctor in the first instance.
NH confirmed that there will be two systems from April 2024: one for NNC and one for WNC.
AD advised that photographs are really helpful when investigating RoW complaints, as is including a W3W reference.
GM will produce a list of any routes which cross the WNC / NNC boundary for Members reference.
Action: GM
Date: 12 June 2024
Training of Volunteers
BE mentioned volunteer litter pickers work on behalf of the Councils.
TS offered a contact for volunteers working in Country Parks: Paul Hackett.
BE reported there was a positive online meeting with both authorities on 12 January at which they agreed to follow up with a simple agreement that would enable ramblers, footpath wardens and other volunteers to carry out simple tasks on the Rights of Way network on behalf of the Councils. It is increasingly urgent for action to be taken on this.
Action: NH and GK
Date: 12 June 2024
3. AOB
TS shared information about a consultation re E Bikes.
Action: Note
Date: N/A
Meeting ended 7:55pm
Dates of Future Meetings
Date: 12 June 2024.
Time: 6pm to 7pm (West Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (North Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Date: 11 September 2024.
Time: 6pm to 7pm (North Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (West Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Date: 4 December 2024
Time: 6pm to 7pm (West Northamptonshire), 7pm to 7:30pm (shared issues), 7:30pm to 8:30pm (North Northamptonshire)
Location: The Training Suite, Brixworth Depot.
Agenda: Wednesday 13 December 7:30pm to 8:30pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Welcome and Apologies
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests – All
3: Review of Minutes of Last Meeting – All
4: Update on resources – Row, Amenities etc.
5: Future of the NNLAF
- Dates of future meetings
- Location of future meetings
6: Update on Projects
- Trunk Road Crossings (TC)
- The Greenway
- Active Travel
- Definitive Map (SF)
- Report on current outstanding DMMOs
- Review of draft ToR
7: Area Reports
- North Northamptonshire
- Active Travel
8: Any Other Business
- Stakeholder Drop-In Events
9: Dates of future meetings
- 2024 meetings to be scheduled (as above)
Local Access Forum – Joint Issues
Agenda: Wednesday 13 December 7:00pm to 7:30pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Welcome and Apologies
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Joint Issues to be discussed
- Rights of Way Action Plan 2024 / 25
- Parish Path Wardens
- Websites and Interactive Mapping
- RoW Users Group meetings
- StreetDoctor
- Training of Volunteers
3: AOB
Draft Meeting Minutes
Agenda: Tuesday 30 May, 6pm to 8:30pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Welcome and Apologies
- welcome and introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests
3: Update on resources – Row, Amenities etc.
4: Update on Projects
- Trunk Road Crossings (TC)
- The Greenway
- Active Travel
- Don’t Lose Your Way (SF)
- Definitive Map (SF)
- report on current outstanding DMMOs
- NNC Websites, Interactive Mapping etc.
5: Issues
- RoWIP action plan(s) – implementation and update
- parish path wardens (JW)
- websites and interactive mapping
- liaison meetings with The Ramblers (JW)
- StreetDoctor (AL)
- maintenance of cycleways and unadopted cycleways (AL)
- training of volunteers (AL)
6: Standing orders of business
- review of ROW issues, diversion / modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
7: Area reports
- North Northamptonshire
8: Any other business
9: Dates of future meetings
- to be decided
Meeting Minutes
Agenda: Thursday 9 February, 7:30pm to 8:30pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Welcome and Apologies
- welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests
3: Election of Chair and Vice Chair
- nominations to be forwarded to the NLAF Secretary prior to the meeting
4: Update on resources – Row, Amenities etc.
5: Update on Projects
- Trunk Road Crossings (TC)
- The Greenway
- Active Travel
- Don’t Lose Your Way (SF)
- Definitive Map (SF)
- report on current outstanding DMMOs
- NNC Websites, Interactive Mapping etc.
- Chester Farm Bridges
6: Issues
- RoWIP action plan(s) – implementation and update
- parish path wardens (JW)
- websites and interactive mapping
- liaison meetings with The Ramblers (JW)
- StreetDoctor (AL)
- maintenance of cycleways and unadopted cycleways (AL)
- training of volunteers (AL)
7: Standing orders of business
- review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
8: Area reports
- North Northamptonshire
9: Any other business
10: Dates of future meetings
- to be decided
Combined agenda: Thursday 9 February, 7pm to 7:30pm
Location: Brixworth Depot
1: Update on LAFs and Contract Overview – Andrew Leighton
2: Review of the minutes of last meeting
3: Terms of Reference
- review of West Northants Terms of Reference
- review of North Northants Terms of Reference
4: Volunteer Activities on the RoW Network
- list of appropriate tasks
- training
- risk assessment
- provision of equipment (PUWER)
- appropriate supervision
- lone working arrangements
Meeting Minutes
Agenda: Tuesday 29 November, 5pm to 7pm
1: Welcome and Apologies – Bob Entwistle
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests
3: Election of Chair and Vice Chair
- Nominations to be forwarded to the NLAF Secretary prior to the meeting.
4. Update on NLAF and Contract Overview – Andrew Leighton, James Docherty, Graeme Kane
- Future of the NLAF Forum – Bob Entwistle
- Details of Operational Changes (to include maps, organisational charts, etc).
5: Review of Minutes of Last Meeting – Bob Entwistle
6. Update on Projects:
- Safe crossings on the A43 and other Trunk Roads (TC)
- The Greenway
- Chester House Bridges (official opening Friday 25th November)
- Don’t Lose Your Way (SF)
- Upton Country Park Accessibility
- Definitive Map (SF)
- Report on current outstanding DMMOs
- Procedure for upgrading a footpath to a bridleway
- WNC / NNC Websites, Interactive Mapping etc. (JD)
- Surface of Drovers Road, Hunsbury
7: Issues
- RoWIP Action Plan(s) – Implementation and Update
- Parish Path Wardens (JW)
- Websites and Interactive Mapping (JD)
- Liaison meetings with The Ramblers (JW)
- StreetDoctor (AL)
- Maintenance of Cycleways and unadopted Cycleways (AL)
- Training of Volunteers
8. Standing Orders of Business
- Review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- Forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- Membership issues (mileage / governance)
9. Area Reports
- West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire
- Active Travel – to include information on how Active Travel intersects with National Highways
10. Any Other Business
11. Dates of future meetings
- To be decided.
Meeting Minutes
Agenda: Thursday 25 August, 1900 – 2100hrs
1: Welcome and Apologies – Bob Entwistle
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests
3. Update on NLAF and Contract Overview – Leon Jolly, James Docherty, Graeme Kane
- Future of the NLAF Forum – Bob Entwistle
4: Review of Minutes of Last Meeting – Bob Entwistle
Matters arising
5. Update on Projects
- Safe crossings on the A43 and other Trunk Roads (TC)
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges
- Don’t Lose Your Way (Steve Fowler)
- Site Visits (Rob Carroll)
- Upton Country Park Accessibility (Leon Jolly)
- Definitive Map (Steve Fowler)
- WNC / NNC Websites, Interactive Mapping etc. (James Docherty)
- Brixworth Churchyard Kissing Gate (Leon Jolly)
6: Issues
- RoWIP Action Plan(s) – Implementation and Update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- PPW Teams Page
- Websites and Interactive Mapping
- Links to Websites
- Liaison meetings with The Ramblers
- StreetDoctor / Fix My Street
- Maintenance of Cycleways
7. Standing Orders of Business
- Review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- Forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- Membership issues (mileage / governance)
8. Area Reports
- Areas 1, 2 and 3
- Active Travel
9. Any Other Business
10. Dates of future meetings:
- Thursday 6 October
- Tuesday 29 November
Meeting Minutes
Agenda: Wednesday 20 April, 1900 – 2100hrs
1: Welcome and Apologies – Bob Entwistle
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2: Declaration of Interests
3: Review of Minutes of Last Meeting – Bob Entwistle
- Matters arising
4. Update on Projects:
- Safe crossings on the A43 and other Trunk Roads (TC)
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges
- Don’t Lose Your Way
- Site Visits (Rob Carroll)
- Upton Country Park Accessibility
- Definitive Map (Steve Fowler)
- WNC / NNC Websites, Interactive Mapping etc. (James Docherty)
5: Presentation on Local Issues:
- Highways Contract Procurement - Leon Jolly and client officers
- Future of NLAF
- RoWIP Action Plan – Implementation and Update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- Induction: March 2022
- PPW Teams Page
- Websites and Interactive Mapping
- Links to Websites
- Liaison meetings with The Ramblers
- StreetDoctor / Fix My Street
6. Standing Orders of Business
- Review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- Forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- Membership issues (mileage / governance)
7. Area Reports
- Areas 1, 2 and 3
- Active Travel
- Greenway
8. Any Other Business
- Access issues: Upton Country Park and West Hunsbury (KB)
9. Dates of future meetings
- Thursday 25 August
- Thursday 6 October
Meeting minutes
Agenda: Tuesday 18 January, 1900 – 2100hrs
1. Welcome and Apologies – Bob Entwistle
- Welcome and Introductions for new members
2. Declaration of Interests
3. Elections – Chair and Vice Chair
2. Review of Minutes of Last Meeting – Bob Entwistle
- Matters arising
3. Update on Projects:
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges update
- Lost Ways update
- Isham Bypass
- Site Visits (Rob Carroll)
4. Presentation on Local Issues:
- Highways Contract Procurement - Leon Jolly and client officers
- Future of NLAF
- RoWIP Action Plan – Implementation and Update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- Induction: January 2022
- Budget 2022/23: Leon Jolly
- Liaison meetings with The Ramblers
- StreetDoctor / Fix My Street
5. Standing Orders of Business
- Review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- Forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- Membership issues (mileage / governance)
6. Area Reports
- Areas 1, 2 and 3
- Active Travel
7. Any Other Business
- Access issues: Upton Country Park and West Hunsbury (KB)
- Protected Characteristics Working Group
8. Dates of future meetings
- To be discussed and confirmed
Agenda: Thursday 16 December 2021, 7pm to 9pm
1: Welcome and apologies - Bob Entwistle
- welcome and introductions for new members
2: Declaration of interests
3: Elections - Chair and Vice Chair
4: Review of minutes of last meeting - Bob Entwistle
- matters arising
5: Update on projects:
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges update
- lost ways update
- Isham Bypass
- site visits (Rob Carroll)
6: Presentation on local issues:
- highways contract procurement - Leon Jolly & client officers
- future of NLAF
- RoWIP Action Plan – Implementation and Update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- induction: January 2022
- budget 2022/23: Leon Jolly
- liaison meetings with The Ramblers
- Street Doctor / Fix My Street
7: Standing orders of business:
- review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and
- opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
8: Area reports:
- areas 1, 2 and 3
- active travel
9: Any other business
10: Dates of future meetings:
- Tuesday 15 February 2022
- Wednesday 17 May 2022
- Thursday 6 October 2022
- Wednesday 14 December 2022
Meeting minutes
Agenda: Thursday 23 September 2021, 7pm to 9pm
1: Welcome and apologies - Bob Entwistle
- welcome and introductions for new members
2: Review of minutes of last meeting - Bob Entwistle
- matters arising
3: Presentation on local issues:
- transition to unitary status (including procurement of contracts)
- update: Leon Jolly & client officers
- RoWIP action plan - implementation and update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- budget 2021/22: Leon Jolly
- liaison meetings with The Ramblers
- potential closure of byways in county
4: Update on projects:
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges update
- lost ways update
- slow ways update
- proposed government changes to the planning system
5: Standing orders of business:
- review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
6: Area reports:
- Areas 1, 2 and 3
- active travel
7: Any other business
8: Dates of future meetings:
- Thursday 16 December
- To be confirmed
Meeting minutes
Agenda: Thursday 27 May 2021, 7pm to 9pm
1: Welcome and apologies - Bob Entwistle
- welcome and introductions for new members
2: Review of minutes of last meeting - Bob Entwistle
3: Presentation on local issues:
- transition to unitary status (including procurement of contracts)
- update: Leon Jolly & client officers
- future of the LAF including representation of NNC and WNC at meetings: All
- Parish Asset / Structure List: Leon Jolly
- RoWIP action plan - Implementation and update: Leon Jolly
- Parish Path Wardens
- budget 2021/22: Leon Jolly
- liaison meetings with The Ramblers
4: Update on projects:
- The Greenway and Chester Farm Bridges update
- lost ways update
- slow ways update
- proposed government changes to the planning system
5: Matters arising
6: Standing orders of business:
- review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
7: Area reports:
- structures
- Areas 1, 2 and 3
- active travel
8: Any other business
9: Dates of future meeting
Meeting minutes
Agenda: Thursday 18 February 2021
1: Welcome and apologies - Bob Entwistle
- welcome and introductions for new members
2: Election / Appointment of Vice Chair – Leon Jolly
3: Presentation on local issues:
- transition to unitary status - update: Leon Jolly
- future of the LAF: All
- Parish asset / structure list: Leon Jolly
- RoWIP action plan - implementation and update: Leon Jolly
- budget 2021/22: Leon Jolly
4: Update on projects:
- The Greenway and Chester Farm bridges update
- lost ways update
- government changes to the planning system
- Northampton Local Cycling and Walking Plan
5: Matters arising
6: Standing orders of business:
- review of ROW issues, diversion/modifications (TRO) recommendations
- forward plan of ROW to walk and review and identify issues and opportunities for improvement (agree any site visits)
- membership issues (mileage / governance)
7: Area reports:
- structures
- areas 1, 2 and 3
8: Forward plan:
- dates of future NLAF meetings
- review of the NLAF webpage
9: Any other business
If you require a copy of the minutes or agendas for the years 2014 to 2020 please email [email protected].
Further information
For all enquiries please email, Secretary for NNLAF, [email protected].
Natural England supports and co-ordinates the work of Local Access Forums at a regional level across the country. Further information and guidance is available on the Government website:
Last updated 17 January 2025