Why do all paths need to be saved by 2026?

After 1 January 2026 we won't be able to use historical evidence to add rights of way to the definitive map (the legal record of rights of way). This date was set in the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) and was intended to bring a level of certainty for landowners. Initially government committed to supporting this work directly but as that hasn't happened organisations like the Ramblers are stepping up and helping put these paths back on the map. We are aiming to raise £49,000 to support these efforts to safeguard our path network long into the future.