We are fortunate in Dorset to have almost 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways that can be used to take your one form of exercise each day.
These rights of way (ROW) pass through communities, farmland, livestock and businesses and it is more important than ever respect the people and animals in our surroundings.
Dorset Council is hearing increasingly that since the Government’s imposed lockdown began, some people are forgetting the most basic rules of the countryside code.
As well as using good hand hygiene on gates and stiles, the council is asking users of its Rights of Way network to remember the following basic advice when out in the countryside:
Respect other people
- consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors
- leave gates and property as you find them and follow paths unless wider access is available
Protect the natural environment:
- leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home
- keep dogs under effective control
Enjoy the outdoors:
- plan ahead and be prepared
- follow advice and local signs
Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“We understand that people are keen to take their daily exercise outside, especially as we have been enjoying such lovely weather. But this time of year, when lambs and calves are in fields it’s even more important that we all take responsibility to follow the countryside code. Our actions can affect people’s lives and livelihoods.
“During this period of lockdown, it is important that we all continue to keep two metres away from others while out exercising.”
More information
- Dorset has 4,700 footpaths, 1,700 bridleways and 37 byways.
- Rights of ways near you
- The Countryside code how to use the countryside responsibly
- The NFU has some useful information for landowners
Please reinforce the requirement to have dogs on lead when on nature reserves and heathland to protect nesting birds.
PLEASE dog owners keep your dogs on leads when in the countryside, especially at this time of year with lambs, calves and ground nesting birds. And PLEASE clear up after your dog and take the poo home to dispose of hygienically. Thank you.
We have 5 cruise liners in the bay what a tourist attract during lockdown. Bowleaze Coveway road very busy.
Hi Anthony – The liners are using the bay they aren’t coming ashore. They are running with minimum staff.