Are cuts a stride in wrong direction?

Feb 5 2009 by Brian Daniel, The Journal

Kate Ashbrook, society general secretary, said: “Northumberland is heavily dependent on tourism for its income, and many visitors come to the county to walk, ride and cycle on its public paths. They generate staggering sums of money for the region.

“But if the paths are neglected, blocked or unmarked, people will be deterred from visiting the area. So the county is shooting itself in the foot if it makes cuts to this vital service.”

The Ramblers Association’s Northumbria group has also called on the council to revise its proposed cuts.

Mavis Harris, footpath secretary for its Hexham group, said: “We are very concerned this will lead to reduction in the service they provide in maintaining the rights of way network and that this will have implications not just for the state of the network but also on tourism and people just getting out and about into the countryside.”

A council spokesperson last night said the authority fully appreciates the concerns raised. She said: “We do recognise the importance of the rights of way network and the benefits that it brings for leisure, tourism and culture.

“However the budgetary restrictions for 2009/10 are extremely difficult and this has meant we have to make savings across all budget areas. These budgetary pressures have led us to a number of difficult decisions, including the proposed reduction to some staff posts within rights of way.” The spokesperson stressed the proposals are yet to be agreed.