Open Access

Since 19th September 2004 a new right of access has gradually been introduced across England giving people the opportunity to walk freely across mapped 'access land' without having to stay on footpaths.  In Nidderdale AONB this new right of access commenced on 28th May 2005 and allows access to over 200 square kilometres of land previously inaccessible to members of the public.
 
The rights cover most recreational activities carried out on foot, including walking, sightseeing, bird-watching, climbing and running.  It does not include cycling, horse riding, driving a vehicle or camping.
 
Along with the new rights came new responsibilities. There are some conditions you will need to be aware of, which are relevant to the Nidderdale AONB.
  • Landowners have 28 days a year they can close their moor, normally to ensure public safety while carrying out necessary management tasks such as heather burning.
  • Dogs are excluded from a lot of the access land in the AONB however you can still take your dog on existing public rights of way as long as they are under close control.
There are a number of access points across the AONB that have information on closures and dog regulations.
 
 
Alternatively here are some useful contacts and links to find out more about your responsibilities.
 
Open Access Helpline:
0845 1003298
 
Access website:
 
Access e-mail:
 
Post to:
Open Access Contact Centre
Natural England
Block 3 Government Buildings
Burghill Road
Westbury on Trym
Bristol
BS10 6NJ

 Photo: Fellbeck

 

Photo: Braithwaite Moor