Restrictions on the land
There's great scope for adventure in the
Welsh countryside. However, sometimes special circumstances
might restrict you from visiting land you could otherwise
explore. These restrictions usually exist to protect the landscape,
and ourselves...
There are different types of land restrictions, and they can all
vary in length - some last only a short time, some are longer
still. A few are even permanent.
Although restrictions do not apply to public rights of way
(PROW) such as public footpaths, they can control how you interact
with the land or what areas you might want to visit.
For example, some of them might rule out taking the dog along,
or they might require you to enter and leave the land at very
specific points.
Permanent restrictions can stop you visiting certain areas
altogether.
Who can impose restrictions?
- ‘Relevant Authorities’ such as the Countryside Council for
Wales, the Forestry Commission and the National Park Authorities
can place what's called a 'restriction by direction'.
- Landowners, tenants and those people with a legal interest in
the land can contact one of these relevant authorities to apply for
a 'discretionary restriction'.
- The Secretary of State for Defence and the Home Secretary can
also impose restrictions where they believe these are necessary for
defence or national security.