Brakes on Downs motor invasion

New laws currently in front of parliament would give national park authorities the ability to make traffic regulation orders to regulate and restrict traffic on recreational routes within their boundaries.

It is claimed that as a result, the authorities would be able to protect their most vulnerable rights of way and 'unsealed highways'.

Pressure on downland tracks in West Sussex has been increasing, with trail riders calling for more access for bikers, and ever-growing numbers of 4x4 vehicles in country areas.

Applications to use rural sections of Stane Street, the Roman route between Chichester and London, were rejected by West Sussex County Council, which has always taken a firm line on the use of rights of way by motor-cyclists.

Rural affairs minister Jim Knight, speaking during the third reading of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill in the House of Commons, said national park authorities would benefit immensely from having the necessary tools to manage traffic effectively for the protection of recreational routes.

Full story in West Sussex Gazette, October 20