Frustration is mounting in Gloucestershire over a significant backlog of footpath applications, with some cases pending resolution for nearly 20 years. The delay concerns applications for modifications to the definitive map—a legal record detailing public rights of way in England and Wales.
Last September, Gloucestershire County Council unanimously tasked senior officers with investigating the backlog and identifying ways to clear the queue of modification applications. Councillors also recommended boosting funding to expedite the resolution process.
Despite these measures, public rights of way campaigner Chas Townley expressed exasperation at the slow pace. Having waited two decades for his application’s progress, Townley condemned the council’s sluggish response, comparing it unfavorably to the decisive actions once signified by Churchill’s “Action this Day” notes.
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“Who runs this charabanc of a County Council?” he lamented, criticizing what he called a “cultural issue” where the council machinery fails to follow up on collective decisions. He emphasized how discouraging it must be for councillors who invest time and build consensus only to see little action.
Townley’s application remains in a queue alongside around 40 others waiting to be referred to the Secretary of State—a wait he calls “absolutely outrageous.” He expressed hope that Lisa Spivey, the new County Council Leader, will bring about much-needed change and steer the council toward enhanced efficiency and service quality.
Responding to concerns, Highways Maintenance Cabinet Member Joe Harris acknowledged the complexity of processing definitive map modification order (DMMO) applications and admitted to the existing backlog. Harris noted the council’s efforts in securing additional funding to support the team handling these cases and promised increased transparency and speed in processing.
“We appreciate the concerns of applicants and the public and are in regular contact with individuals like Mr. Townley,” Harris said. “An update on progress will be shared later this year following the council’s motion.”
The council remains committed to addressing the issue and achieving meaningful improvements to public rights of way services.