Legislation introducing the concept of access rights is being proposed in an own initiative investigation on the right to ramble by the Commissioner for Environment and Planning.

Commissioner David Pace initiated the investigation following a series of meetings with representatives of the Ramblers’ Association during which they spoke about their difficulties to access the countryside to ramble.

The meetings showed there was need for a series of rambling trails which would define the available pathways.

The report suggests the provision of a legislative framework within which rambling can be carried out without prejudicing landowners’ rights to the peaceful enjoyment of their property.

It suggests that rather than open the countryside to unchecked roaming, often with harmful consequences, passageways are set up throughout the countryside to offer controlled paths strictly for areas of sensitive ecological or environmental importance, while opening up new vistas which are to date inaccessible.

The commissioner recommends enacting legislation that introduces the concept of access rights under clear guidelines.

He argues that the presence of ramblers will serve as a deterrent against vandalism and damage to paths, structures and infrastructures forming part of the trail and will provide a monitoring and ‘watchdog’ service in favour of the upkeep and preservation of the landscape.

The commissioner concludes there is an urgent need for the setting-up of rambling trails, which will also raise awareness and appreciation of the natural and historical heritage.