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

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effectiveness of the existing institutional framework in England for waymarking (1) long distance trails, and (2) local footpaths.

Effective waymarking and signage has been consistently identified as an essential component in the maintenance of public rights of ways improving access and providing a better experience for all users.

Local authorities are responsible for the management and maintenance of public rights of way including the appropriate use of signage in accordance with published guidance. No overall assessment of the condition of signage and waymarking has been undertaken however such assessments may form part of local authorities’ rights of way improvement plans.

Signage for National Trails is covered by national trail quality standards where there is a requirement to make constant improvements to individual Trails and its associated routes. Monitoring information on the assessment of the condition of path surfaces and structures including signage is reported annually.