Definitive Map and Statement

The Definitive Map and Statement is the legal record of public rights of way and provides conclusive evidence of their existence and status.  The Definitive Map shows the location of rights of way on a base map (see link to local view map on right of this page for public rights of way information).  The statement records additional details such as status, description, width, length, structures and surface.

Changing the Definitive Map and Statement

It is possible to divert, create or extinguish rights of way through a Public Path Order.  If planning permission has been granted then diversions or extinguishments can be made under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.  Under the Highways Act 1980 they can be diverted in the interests of the landowner, created where needed or extinguished if it is not needed. 

Unrecorded rights of way can be added to the Definitive Map and Statement by making a Definitive Map Modification Order.  Anyone can apply for an Order but this must be supported by documentary evidence and/ or evidence of use without interruption for twenty years. 

A list of current Applications will be available to download in due course.

Statutory Declarations

Landowners can deposit a statement and map under section 31(6) of the Highways Act 1980 indicating any rights of way over there land and then make a make a statutory declaration to the effect that no additional rights of way exist. 

Anyone wanting to view or change the Definitive Map and Statement or make a Statutory Declaration should contact the Definitive Map Team on 0113 3957400.