Agenda item

The Chair reported that she had recently met with Martin Bennett and Charlotte Gilbert (Vice Chairs of LAF) to think about the priorities and the broad work streams that the LAF may want to concentrate on over the next year, as part of the LAF’s Forward Plan.

The Chair reminded Members about the LAF’s main purpose and role which was to advise on the improvement of public access to land in the National Park (and NW Derbyshire) with a focus on open-air recreation and enjoyment of the area.

The Chair then gave a presentation to Members on some of the things that the LAF have to be consulted on which are:-

·         Rights of Way Improvement Plan, which Gill Millward from Derbyshire CC updates the LAF on at each meeting

·         Long Term Directions – which exclude or restrict access to access land for a period which exceeds 6 months – eg Silence Mine, TRO’s etc

·         Byelaws made in respect of Access Land – although new ones have not  been done since CRoWAct

·         Wardens for Access Land – now called Rangers and the provision of Ranger and engagement type services across Access Land

·         Dog Control Orders

·         Gating Orders

The Chair then reported that following the meeting with Martin and Charlotte, 6 LAF work streams were agreed upon which were:-

Ensure we are contributing effectively to statutory and other consultations

Proactive approach to PROW network improvement

Address strategic access topics, especially those issues not being addressed elsewhere, or where we can have the most influence

Ensure meetings run smoothly, and members are informed, can contribute to discussions and get something from being on the LAF

Stabilise/increase membership and get input from a more diverse range of voices

Build our links with other LAFs, access organisations and statutory bodies

Members asked whether other Counties/District Councils could be invited to the LAF Meetings and could the LAF try to get more young/ under-represented groups involved for a more diverse range of voices?  Mike reported that the Staffs LAF had lapsed since the pandemic but that he would try and re-engage with them; Charlotte attends DADLAF and Louise will attend Sheffield LAF meetings. Members said that getting youngsters to come to a meeting in the daytime, when they are probably at University etc was not easy but one solution could be to have remote meetings or site visits with other groups.

The Chair then asked if any Member of the LAF had any further thoughts on what was presented and if so then to please send them through.

Members found the presentation useful to remind them of the role and purpose of the Forum. Paul asked if a one-page summary of the role and priorities of the LAF could be produced for Members to share with colleagues and prospective members, to better explain what we do.

ACTION: Chair to produce final forward plan, and one page summary of LAF role and priorities, and share with Members before the next meeting.