Suffolk Coastal has powers to make public path extinguishment
orders under
section 118 of the Highways Act 1980. Before we
do, we need to be satisfied that the footpath or bridleway
concerned is not needed for public use. We also have to take
into account what the likely use of the footpath or bridleway would
be if an order was not made, and also the effect the change would
have on the land the route currently crosses. We
must also give consideration to the needs of
agriculture (including the breeding and keeping of horses),
forestry and nature conservation.
If an extinguishment order is made at the same time as a
creation order, agreement or diversion order, we can consider
the extent to which the creation or diversion would provide an
alternative route for the one being extinguished.
We can also make public path stopping up orders under
section 257 of the Town and Country Planning Act
1990 (new window). We use this power if we
are satisfied that it is necessary for the footpath or
bridleway to be stopped up in order to enable development to be
carried out in accordance with planning permission granted by the
Council.
We have to consider the disadvantages or loss likely to arise to
users of the route as a result of the change. It should not be
assumed that an order will be made simply because planning
permission has been granted.
If you would like advice or more information
about extinguishing or stopping up a route then
contact us or see our
frequently asked questions page.
Follow this link to
download application forms and guidance
notes.
Back to Making changes to footpaths and
bridleways