Register of definitive map modification order applications

The Definitive Map and the Definitive Statement together form the legal record of public rights of way. This record is however only definitive as to what it contains not to what it omits.

Public rights may exist over a way currently not shown on the map or alternatively additional rights may exist over a way. Where such rights are alleged to exist there are procedures to enable the allegations to be tested. These are set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and allow the County Council to make a legal order known as a 'Definitive Map Modification Order'.

Schedule 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 allows a formal application to be made to the County Council to investigate whether or not new or additional public rights exist. This section also gives the applicant recourse to appeal to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if the council decides not to make an order or does not make a decision within 12 months of its receipt.

Under Section 53B of the Wildlife and Countryside Act the County Council maintains a register of all current Map Modification Order (MMO) applications made under schedule 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Listed below are the current or recently completed applications. There is a another page for Rights of Way Public Notices. Select from the index below for the borough and then the links to find out about individual claims in your area.