01 May 2014
The Department of the Environment has launched a consultation to find out more about how people and organisations use the Island’s countryside paths.
Many public paths are managed by the department, and the majority of the budget available is used for maintaining the paths, with little remaining for enhancing facilities. The department hopes to get the views of path users before it puts together a co-ordinated plan for future management of the network.
Islanders can take part in the consultation online and can also attend independently-run workshops to share their views on how the network can be managed in future.
The needs of different users
Planning and Environment Minister Deputy Rob Duhamel said “Jersey Tourism estimates that approximately 100,000 tourists a year use the paths, in addition to local walkers, horse riders, dog owners and cyclists, so the network brings considerable environmental, educational, health and economic benefits.
“We don’t have all the answers and we don’t know what different users want or need so while there’s going to be a compromise and balance between user need and budget available, we want to hear as many people’s views as possible before we produce a plan for the future.”
Consultation
The deparment has published a Countryside Access Strategy document which looks at some of the main issues surrounding use of the paths and has also developed an online survey. Both are available online or can be requested in print from the States consultation portal.
The closing date is Thursday 7 August.
Consultation portal
Focus groups
In addition to the online survey, independent focus groups are being held to gather more detailed information on Islanders' use and views of coast and countryside paths. Anyone who would like to take part should email or call 4Insight Limited on +44 (0)1534 765380.
Email 4Insight Limited
gov.je