Suffolk Coastal has powers to make public path diversion orders
under
section 119 of the Highways Act 1980.
We need to be satisfied that it is in the interests of the
owner or occupier of the land and/or of the public for the footpath
or bridleway to be diverted. We also need to be satisfied that the
proposed route will not be substantially less convenient for the
public to use than the existing route.
We have to consider the effect of the diversion on public
enjoyment of the route as a whole, on other land served by the
existing route, and on the land (and any land held with it) where
the new route is created. We must also give
consideration to the needs of agriculture (including the
breeding and keeping of horses), forestry and nature
conservation.
We can also make public path diversion 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 diverted 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
diverting 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