The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Outdoor Recreation and Access to Nature has just published its report. It can be viewed by clicking the image above.

The report is based on evidence collected from a range of organisations with an interest in outdoor activities and access to nature. These included the BMC, Ramblers and Wildlife Trusts.

Click the image below to see a summary of the current access situation.



These are the key recommendations contained in the report:

• Expanding Access: Establish statutory rights to responsible access across a broader range of landscapes, including but not limited to inland waters, woodlands and other suitable natural environments, and for a broader range of recreational activities, including wild camping, paddling, swimming, cycling, caving and horse riding.
• Improving Existing Access: Establish an Access to Nature Investment Strategy enabling local highway authorities to apply for resources based on assessed local needs and opportunities aligned with national priorities. Remove barriers like stiles, and simplify footpath upgrades.
• Accessing Blue Spaces: Expand access rights for swimming and non-motorised craft on inland waters through new legislation or amendments to existing acts, such as the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW), an Access to Nature Bill, or the upcoming Water Reform Bill.
• Children Spending Time Outdoors: Establish a requirement for all children and young people to experience at least one residential outdoor experience, linked to curriculum outcomes at KS2, using Pupil Premium to ensure inclusion for all.
• Promoting Health and Wellbeing Outcomes: Enshrine access to nature as a statutory public health responsibility by amending the Health and Social Care Act.
• Planning and Transport: Improve public transport links to and from green and blue spaces, including increased frequency, expanded routes and affordability.
• Governance, Strategy and Accountability: Publish a long-term Government plan to improve public access to nature, with a clear vision, strategy, legally binding targets, backed by an Access to Nature Investment Strategy to direct funding.
• Awareness and Education: Overhaul the Countryside Code to promote access and responsible behavior. Implement a National Ranger Service, and transform the Ordnance Survey App into a free, universal tool.

The chair of the group is Andy MacNae, who is MP for Rossendale and Darwen. More information about the group can be viewed HERE

You can read the Guardian's background article about the report HERE

If you have any views on the report that you would like to share, please email me at: membership@pnfs.org.uk