Only footpaths shown on the definitive map sorted with local councils will be considered true footpaths after 2026. This means that footpaths in local communities across the UK could begin to close and become unmanaged after such time.
To counter this in Norfolk, walking groups are attempting to provide the necessary evidence to local councils in order to ensure that our beloved walkways aren’t lost. This consists of studying historic maps, assessing boundaries and crucially; visiting paths to capture evidence in the form of photographs. Collated in the correct manner, this evidence is enough to prevents us from losing access to the very ground that has been walked by many for centuries.
We’ve been working on this for a while, but there’s still a lot more to do. There’s further information on this project at the national site at https://www.ramblers.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-us/dont-lose-your-way-2026.aspx.