Environment and roads

Your responsibilities whilst using a right of way:

Wherever possible, follow the Country Code:-

• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs.
• Leave gates and property as you find them.
• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home.
• Keep your dogs under close control.
• Use gates and stiles to cross fences, hedges and walls.
• Consider other people.

An expanded version of the Country Code is available from the Countryside Agency (www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk).

If you are driving a vehicle on Rights of Way, please keep the following Code of Conduct in mind:-

• Only use routes with motor vehicle rights - if in doubt check with the Rights of Way UNit at Hertfordshire County Council.
• Keep to the defined way across farmland - wheel can damage crops and grass, and driving or deviating from the route onto farmalnd is trespassing.
• Give way to walkers, horseriders and cyclists - as a courtesy on all narrow routes, stop and switch off engines if necessary. Take special care when driving near horses.
• Fasten gates to safeguard stock - except those tied open for farming purposes. An open gate invites animals to stray, endangering themselves, crops and traffic.
• Travel at a safe speed - ride/drive at a reasonable speed, taking regard of conditions and visibility.
• Ride and drive quietly - machines must be effectively silenced. Use the throttle with discretion as noise can offend.
• Honour the Country Code (see above) - respect the countryside and those who live, work and play in it. Routes can be valuable habitats, so take special care in spring and early summer when wildlife may be rearing young.