There has been some discussion in the National Countryside Access Forum (NCAF) and during debate of the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill, of the concept of 'access points' or, as we prefer to describe them here - 'information points') in relation ...
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NCAF 8/5 Access information points

There has been some discussion in the National Countryside Access Forum (NCAF) and during debate of the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill, of the concept of 'access points' or, as we prefer to describe them here - 'information points') in relation to access land. This note sets out some thoughts on what 'information points' might be, where they should be located, and how they might be put in place.
What are 'Access Information Points'?

Access information points will be places identified on Ordnance Survey maps and other information material where visitors can be confident that they will find information about:
  • the rights and responsibilities of those using access land;
  • the location of access land, convenient points to enter or leave it and convenient tracks or paths (on a simple map);
  • any special qualities of the land being entered (SSSI etc);
  • the nature and location of any unusual dangers or hazards;
  • the nature, location and duration of any local restrictions to access;
  • any local byelaws; and
  • other sources of advice, information or help.  
The material they present should be easy to read and understand, and welcoming. They should be visible and numerous enough so that visitors can easily locate them; but they should not be so prominent as to be unsightly, especially in open landscapes. Their design and construction should be resilient and to a high common standard, with scope for the use of appropriate local materials.

Where will they be erected? 

There will be many places where entry into access land is possible. Information points will be located near particularly convenient places for entry and where any local concentration of access would cause no harm. This might be near bus stops, car parks or where particularly popular rights of way (e.g. national trails) join access land.

Other convenient entry and exit points might also be identified on maps but there will be a clear differentiation between those and 'information points' where visitors could be sure of finding at least the information listed above.

How will they be created?

The location of 'information points' and any other points to be shown on maps as particularly convenient for entry into or exit from access land should be discussed and wherever possible agreed between access authorities, the Countryside Agency and local interests. Section 19 of the Bill gives access authorities (highway authorities) powers to erect and maintain notices, or to contribute to the costs of others doing so.