horses using ally ways

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charlie13

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we use an ally way out hack in and out of the local estate. We have had a couple of complaintes (apparantly ) and yo has asked us not to go down there ( he is nevere around so just leaves notes ) . There is no gates stopping bikes using it ! . Is there any rules about equids using it ? thanks in advance.

cake and cup off tea all round :)
 
Whether it is an ally or not doesn't matter, what counts is whether it is a bridleway or not. If it is just a public footpath then those complaining are in the right, you shouldn't be using it I'm afraid.
 
yep check the map, if a bridleway will have dashed line, but unless it is one you dont have any rights to use it. I would be surprised if it were a bridleway. Do check tho that its not an old downgraded road, (BOAT or RUPP). Suggest speak to local access officer. Do you know the basis of the complaints, is it poop or is it just complaining because they 'can'? Local auths have a responsibility to find and promote off road routes so if the alternative is dangerous try to get them involved in making it safer.
 
it is definatley an ally no downgraded road definatly an ally yes complaint about poop :S i dont mine about complaint just would like to know rights it is not designated on the map as anything :S thanks for advice
 
You might find you have created an existing right if you have used it regularly for more than 2 years, check with a BHS bridleways officer, they will know.
 
Unless it is a bridleway or a BOAT (Byway open to all traffic) then you cannot use it. If it is a footpath then technically bikes shoudn't use it either.

Obviously if there are no gates or things to stop you riding down it then physically you can. But if something happened and you needed to claim on your insurance you may find the would refuse to pay because you were not legally permitted to be there. If it were a claim against you for injury or damage then that sort of action could cost you everything - your home, your horse...literally everything. If it was your horse injured then it could make the difference between treating them or putting them to sleep.

I don't want to seem alarmist but you cannot over estimate the massive impact of an equine related accident with the current state of the law.
 
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