Section 6b - Requirements by user type

Multi-use routes

The provision of multi-use paths form the bulk of PRoW needs. Bridleways, for example, are open to pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists; BOATs are open to pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists and motorised transport.

Multi-use may give rise to potential conflicts and therefore, care must be taken when considering the type of any surface provided. The categorisation of the PRoW network as sustainable, recreational and general will lead to a variable standard according to the definitions laid out in the new hierarchy.

It is expected that a sustainable multi-use route built on a byway or bridleway will have a high standard of surface that can accommodate pushchairs, wheel chairs, horses, pedestrians, cycles etc. A rural byway may have lower usage expectations and therefore a less expensive surface material could be used.

There are two means of accommodating multi-use.

1. Shared Construction - All users of the path pass over the same material.
2. Dual Construction - Two discrete surfaces, normally a hard surface that can accommodate vehicular use and a more yielding surface for horses and livestock. It therefore allows different users' needs to be met more precisely. This approach is more costly and can only be considered where width permits.

The following paragraphs detail the ideal surfaces of the key user groups.

Pedestrians

Able-bodied pedestrians can be expected to negotiate a variety of surfaces from the natural ground surface to a sealed pathway.

HCC has a duty to regard the need of disabled and blind when executing works, etc [HA80 s175A] and will consider access for persons with disabilities wherever surfacing is carried out. This could include making changes to the texture or colour of the path surface to give clues to people who are blind or partially sighted. Any changes must be smooth and level, with a surface difference no greater than 5mm.

Grates and manhole covers should only be used if the gaps between the grilles are no more than 12mm and the grilles are at right angles to the direction of travel.

Ideal materials include concrete, bitumen macadam, stone, brick/paving and mown grass. Unsuitable materials include sand, loose gravel and cobbles.

Cyclists

The casual cyclist can be assumed to have little off-road experience or capability and therefore could expect a reasonably smooth surface with few loose stones.

The level of provision is concerned with the needs of the casual cyclist above, particularly children and novices, rather than the fast-moving commuter or mountain biker seeking demanding terrain. A well drained beaten earth track is suitable for most types of cycling. Where a surface is provided it should be smooth and skid resistant. Any grilles must have the slots aligned across the route and any changes in surfacing should be flush. The general aim is for a surface which does not threaten stability, which provides a comfortable ride and which is passable in all weathers.

Equestrians

Riders will always prefer a natural (beaten earth) or grassed track as these surfaces do not jar the horse's legs. However, where this is not possible sand or wood chips are preferred for bridleway surfaces. The success of such surfacing depends on the quality of the construction and the drainage provision. Provided these routes are well drained and the volume of horse traffic is sufficiently low, to enable drying out of the surface between periods of rainfall, there is no reason why the many miles of bridleway, so formed, cannot continue to provide good service.