Help survey 1,000 of our footpaths in 2015

Help Survey 1,000 of our Footpaths in 2015

Rochdale has 1,782 public rights of way, the biggest network in Greater Manchester covering nearly 345 miles.

The last survey of our footpath network was carried out in 1999. A new survey is long overdue.

In 2015 Rochdale Ramblers aim to 'survey' 1,000 of these 1,782 and the results of thier findings will be sent to Rochdale MBC so that the network can be improved and any obstruction issues resolved.

Rochdale Ramblers are asking volunteers to check out a small number of footpaths close to where they live or where they walk on a regular basis, in brief “walk along the path and fill in a form”.

Rochdale Ramblers will also be asking members of local Friends Groups, Civic Trusts and Local Societies around Rochdale.

Volunteers will be provided with an A4 map identifying the numbered paths they are to survey and asked to complete a very simple A4 form in respect of each path covering such things as obstructions, gates/stiles, overgrown condition, etc.

Complete administrative backup will be provided.

A spokesperson said: "Rochdale Ramblers has 231 members and ideally they are looking for a large number of active volunteers who would be prepared to survey several paths in an area of their choice.

"Rochdale Ramblers appreciate that some will be able to do more than others but if you can help survey just a few paths this will help us achieve our objective.

"Remember that many local footpaths are in urban areas and on urban fringes close to home and not all on remote moorland.

"Nearly everyone has a public footpath within yards of where they live.

"Rochdale Ramblers Walk leaders will also be asked to survey any footpaths (within the Rochdale area) covered on their particular walk.

"If the response for volunteers isn’t forthcoming it will not be possible to take the project further.

"Rochdale Ramblers has identified a source of funding for the project.

"So please contact me if you are able to help.

"A final decision one way or other will have to be made by early December."

Contact Roy Thorniley, Rochdale Ramblers Footpath and Countryside Secretary 
vrthorniley@yahoo.co.uk