Appeal a right of way decision

Your local authority makes decisions about right of way applications.

You can appeal their decision if you applied to change the area’s definitive map and statement and either:

• you disagree with the decision (a schedule 14 appeal)
• the local authority did not make a decision with 12 months (a direction request)

You cannot appeal if:

• the local authority approves a different use for the land (for example they make an order for a footpath when you applied for a bridleway)
• you did not submit your original application correctly (for example you did not notify landowners who might be affected by the change)

There’s no fee for appealing.

Only the person who made the application can appeal. If you did not apply, you can comment on an appeal instead.

You must appeal:

• within 28 days of the date on the decision letter
• 12 months after you submitted the application if your local council has not made a decision.

When you can expect a decision

Once your appeal is validated, you’ll normally get a decision within 26 weeks.