Devon Countryside Access Forum

Devon Countryside Access Forum is looking for new members.

Set up as a statutory forum under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, its role is to provide independent advice on issues associated with improving access to land for recreation and enjoyment. It is has a specific responsibility to advise Devon County Council, district, borough and parish councils, the Secretary of State for any Government Department, Natural England, the Forestry Commission, English Heritage, Sport England and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Conservation Boards.

Membership of the Forum provides an interesting and exciting opportunity to get involved in policies affecting access.  Over the past year the Forum has advised Government on the coastal access proposals and advised on a review of the Forestry Commission public estate, as well as commenting on many other national and local consultations.  Terry Faull, Chairman, said: "As an independent advisory body, the Forum is able to have real influence on the development of strategies which will determine how our countryside will be enjoyed and used both now and in the future."

The Forum is supported by Devon County Council which appoints its members.  It has fifteen volunteer members who represent a balance between land managers and those with access interests (such as walkers, cyclists and horse riders).  Members with other expertise including law and disability issues are also on the forum, in addition to two councillors.  The aim of the Forum is to achieve a consensus view on priorities and policies affecting access provision.   Whilst members give their time on a voluntary basis a mileage rate is paid.

Forum meetings are open to the public and the dates of meetings arranged for 2010 are February 9, April 22 and October 7, at 10.00 a.m. Details of venue and agenda papers are available on the website the week before each meeting.

The closing date for applications is 26 February 2010.  Application forms, accompanying details and information on the work of the Devon Countryside Access Forum can be found on  www.devon.gov.uk/devon_countryside_access_forum  

Alternatively contact Hilary Winter Forum Officer Devon Countryside Access Forum
Lucombe House County Hall Topsham Road Exeter EX2 4QW Tel:  01837 810921 hilary.winter@devon.gov.uk

Charlotte Sealy MSc MRICS – Regional surveyor - South West

Chartered Surveyor.

Phone: 01249 700200
Email charlotte.sealy@cla.org.uk