'Once a Highway, Always a Highway'.
So, if public rights of way are recorded as such by 2026, then they will be there for us all forever.
The Ramblers are running a campaign called 'Don't Lose Your Way' and the LDWA has previously highlighted the campaign in Strider and the Chair's Newsletter. The campaign can be accessed at:
https://www.ramblers.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-us/dont-lose-your-way-2026.aspx
IF you have time, it's often useful to look at older maps to see where ancient footpaths used to go. It is sobering to note in my local area that several footpaths that SHOULD exist don't. But, by recording them on the Ramblers portal, there is the prospect of them being protected and possibly recreated. A useful resource for older maps can be found at:
https://www.OldMapsOnline.org 