We take a very active role in safeguarding and improving the rights of way network across the South Downs.
A team of volunteers known as Area Access Officers regularly walk the paths and bridleways in the parishes they cover. They examine the condition of stiles and gates, looking out for obstructions and checking on the clarity and adequacy of waymarks.
If necessary contact is then made with the relevant Local Authority to remedy defects and liaison is maintained with the Local Footpath Secretaries of the Ramblers Association.
We are consulted on footpath closures, diversions and issues concerning Open Access Land and have representatives on the Local Access Forums covering the South Downs National Park. We meet annually with the National Park Authority to discuss matters affecting Access and Rights of Way in the Park.
Our extensive walks and strolls programme means we truly have our eyes, ears and feet on the Downs!
Open Access Areas on the South Downs
A joint project between the Friends of the South Downs, the South Downs Local Access Forum and the, now dissolved, South Downs Joint Committee created a small series of downloadable interpretation leaflets to encourage greater awareness about some of the South Downs finest open access sites.
Open access land offers walkers an exciting opportunity to explore some of the spectacular South Downs landscape from a much closer perspective than ever before.
The project is supported by the South Downs National Park Authority.
