The city's public rights of way network is shown on a 1:25000 scale plan which is called the Definitive Map. These rights of way are described in writing in a supporting document called the Definitive Statement. The footpaths and bridleways shown on the definitive map are nearly all old rights of way that were in existence when most of the city's suburbs were just rural parishes. A handful of newer paths have been added over the years.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981  gives people the right to have ways with unclear status made as public rights of way. We will usually voluntarily investigate these claims in our own time, but people do have the right to formally apply to us and ask for a determination on a path's status. Download Modification Order Application Pack.  137kb

If we make an Order to modify the Definitive Map by adding the new way, we will publish a copy of it in the Derby Evening Telegraph and display notices of the Order at the Council House, Roman House and the path itself.

People have 42 days to object to a Modification Order. If we do not receive any objections then we will confirm the Order. By confirming the Order we will have legally added the way to the Definitive Map and Statement.

If we receive objections and cannot persuade the objectors to withdraw them, then we have to refer the matter to the Secretary of State who will probably instruct that a public local inquiry is held to investigate the matter.

For further information contact

Derby City Council
Regeneration and Community
Roman House
Friar Gate
Derby DE1 1XB

Telephone 01332 255024 Minicom 01332 256666 Fax 01332 255989 email rightsofway@derby.gov.uk

For additional information on definitive maps and statements, you can visit these websites

Natural England 
The Planning Inspectorate 
Derbyshire County Council