Public Rights of Way Structures
Stiles
Where a Public Footpath is located in a field containing livestock, a stile is a common method used to help you cross a fence or wall, although they can sometimes be found in other locations. Stiles are the responsibility of the landowner and can only be erected with the permission of the Highway Authority. They should only be found on public footpaths, i.e. where access is limited to walkers.
Stiles should be easy to use, firmly fixed and be in good condition. If they are not, please let us know by completing the report a problem form below.
Bridges
Bridges must be suitable for the type of use, e.g. on a Public Bridleway they must be wide enough and strong enough for both walkers and horse riders to cross safely. They must be safe to use and in good condition. If you encounter any bridges that do not appear safe, or reasonably easy to use, please let us know. Bridges in Lincolnshire can range from small wooden footbridges made from old railway sleepers, generally between 1.2 and 1.5 metres in width, to larger constructions made of steel and concrete, possibly crossing major water-courses. The more robust bridges can tend to be on higher status routes, i.e. BOATs, requiring a capability to carry vehicular traffic.
Gates
In appropriate circumstances, the Highway Authority may permit the installation of a suitable gate but, as with stiles, they remain the responsibility of the landowner. Many stiles on the County’s public footpaths are now being replaced by gates in order to provide easier access for those people with restricted mobility.
You will find different types of gate when you are out and about on the rights of way network. Main examples include:
- field gate.
- kissing gate.
- bridle gate, which can be opened and closed from horse-back.
Whatever type of gate you encounter, it should always be free of any obstructions so that it can be opened and shut with ease. If not please let us know by completing the report a problem form below.
