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Planning the network
At the outset, strategic planning should be undertaken develop a zoned core path network framework, which will guide development across the local authority area. Although this stage has already been undertaken in developing this strategy, it is worthwhile considering the costs which it will generally incur. They include access officer time, and the cost of establishing and running and North Lanarkshire-wide access forum, to take ownership of the strategic requirements. In addition, staff time of other professional advisers should also be taken into account.
The second stage of the planning process will involve the development of core path networks within the zones identified in the strategic framework (i.e. Action Area Plans defined above). This will primarily be achieved through consultation with land managers and local communities, and it is likely that officer time will also be used to be present proposals to the council and North Lanarkshire Public Access Forum for ratification. Access officer time will be therefore be the main cost at this stage.
Establishing the Network
The following areas of cost are likely to be incurred in the process of establishing the network:
Managing and Maintaining Access
Annual Maintenance of the Core Path Network:
Maintenance costs comprises the cost of monitoring the condition of the routes, repairs to paths and associated structures, and general maintenance common to the whole network (e.g. litter picking, strimming). Generally maintenance costs have been estimated as a percentage of construction costs.
Further Considerations
In addition to the above, the following considerations should also be taken into account in assessing budgetary costs of access:
- Promotion of the access network: Focusing both on the overall network within North Lanarkshire and, more specifically, on local path networks. Costs consist of access officer time to collate information and design promotional materials, as well as the cost of printing and specialist design by North Lanarkshire Council Design Department.
- Ranger Service Commitments: The current remit of Rangers within Local Authorities is already very broad. It includes planning, maintaining and promoting access, as well as nature conservation and the management of parks and education. Rangers will be expected to play a key role in delivering the section of the legislation concerned with the promotion of responsible behaviour in the countryside. It is clear that Rangers will not be able dedicate more time to access initiatives without compromising other areas of their work. Thus, it may become necessary to employ 'Access Rangers', in order to deliver an adequate educational and promotional programme.
- Planning Staff: The role of planners in access initiatives may change as a result of the appointment of access officers, who are likely to take responsibility for most of the day to day management of access. However, planners will be responsible for a number of existing and new functions which will arise as the new legislation emerges. New responsibilities may include securing management agreements, resolving disputes, encouraging developer assistance, and integrating access with wider initiatives and policy statements.
- Roads/Transport Department: North Lanarkshire Councils Transportation Department will have an increasingly important role to play in facilitating projects such as 'Quiet Roads' Initiatives, establishing links with public transport service providers, and ensuring that the access strategy complements, and is complemented by, the Local Transport Strategy.
- Route Construction: Engineering costs of routes will vary, with cycle paths requiring more input than walking routes. Components such as traffic calming measures, and signage and lighting required to meet Highways Authority Standards should also be incorporated in the costing process.
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