Purpose of Forum

The function of the Local Access Forum is: to advise as to the improvement of public access to land in the area for the purposes of open-air recreation and the enjoyment of the area.

The Local Access Forum may also:

• Respond to relevant consultations.
• Contribute in an advisory capacity to the development of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan(s) for Monmouthshire.
• Promote the appropriate use of opportunities to enjoy the countryside, and to foster better understanding of the varying needs of the different types of users.
• Advise upon the appropriate management and maintenance of access, balancing the provision of access against the needs of biodiversity, wildlife management and of landowners and land managers.
• Advise on developing additional opportunities for everyone to enjoy the rights of way and access network, including those with disabilities.

Additional details on the roles and responsibilities of this group and the authority is available on a link by clicking here.

The Brecon Beacons National Park has three LAF's, which cover the National Park, which are available on a link by clicking here.   Monmouthshire LAF covers the rest of the county of Monmouthshire.

Membership of Forum

The County Council has recently re-appointed members to sit on the Local Access Forum for the next three years.  The forum is required to have between 12 and 22 members (not including the Secretary).  The members of the local access forum are listed on a link by clicking here.  The members are chosen for their knowledge and experience over a broad range of countryside issues.  Their independence from the views of any particular organisation and their ability to recognise the validity of the views of others and to seek consensus is vital.

In addition to members of the forum, statutory and invited observers may attend meetings and can comment but cannot vote.

Public involvement

The public can also attend meetings and observe proceedings.  Comments from the public will also be accepted by written representation or at the discretion of the Chair.  For future Meeting Dates, Minutes and Agenda click here.

Commitment

The forum is committed to meeting at least twice a year however the members themselves determine when and how many meetings should take place. At the present time meetings are taking place bi-monthly, in County Hall, during the week. Members are expected to actively seek the views of interested parties and to spread news of the work of the forum.

For further information please contact the Secretary.