Rights of way: Definitive map modifications and changes to the network

Find public rights of way in the Cumberland area and find out how to make a modification to the Definitive Map or make changes to a Public Right of Way.

Definitive map and statement

The definitive map and statement are paper documents detailing the legal alignment of public rights of way in Cumberland. You can make an appointment to view the map by contacting us.

Email: countryside.access@cumberland.gov.uk

If you need to identify the alignment of a public right of way for legal purposes it is recommended that you carry out a highways search.

Submit an application

Along with the application form you'll need to provide evidence either in the form of user evidence forms or historic mapping documents or both, that demonstrates a period of use. You can find more information in the explanatory notes and the application form.

Changes to the network

This includes:

  • diversions
  • extinguishment
  • creation

We have powers to process applications for Public Path Orders under the Highways Act 1980. 

We will use our discretion to assess the merits of each application, considering both the needs of users of the public path network and the landowner and/or interested parties. 

Currently we keep a register to manage all new applications in accordance with the date received unless there are exceptional circumstances. 

An indication of timescale can be given during initial discussions, once the proposal can be detailed.