Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to help protect people using rural footpaths, bridleways and trails from irresponsibly driven off-road vehicles.

Some rural public rights of way and unsealed unclassified roads allow for the legal recreational use of motor vehicles and such routes often provide essential vehicular access for local residents and businesses.

Whilst many users make use of these rights in a responsible way, the Government is aware of damage and disturbance caused by excessive use of off-road motor vehicles on some unsealed routes.

The Government is working with stakeholders to explore options for protecting our green lanes while maintaining most public and private access rights, particularly for residents and businesses.

Local authorities already have powers through Traffic Regulation Orders to control the amount and type of traffic on all roads.