Natural England has delivered a set of recommendations to the government designed to protect the country’s walking routes and public rights of way.

The Stepping Forward report contains several measures which the organisation claims would benefit walkers, landowners, local authorities and farmers.

At present, there is a lack of clarity for the public about which walking routes they can use, as many footpaths and bridleways are not recorded on the ‘definitive map’ held by councils.

Poul Christensen, chair of Natural England, said he hopes the recommendations, which include reducing the bureaucracy of the existing procedures for recording pre-149 rights of way, will benefit everybody.

“Rights of way are a vital means by which people can enjoy our beautiful countryside and engage with nature, farming and their local heritage,” he added.

Adrian Morris, a campaigner for Ramblers, backed the plan, adding that the government must not “cherry pick” recommendations, as they will have no effect.