The term 'Restricted Byway' was introduced by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 [1]. It is a new type of highway, unknown to the common law. On 2 May 06, every route shown in the definitive map and statement as a 'Road Used as a Public Path' became reclassified as a Restricted Byway, with some minor exceptions [2]. Section 48 of the 2000 Act sets out the public's rights on a Restricted Byway as: a right of way on foot a right of way on horseback or leading a horse, and a right of way for vehicles other than mechanically propelled vehicles with or without a right to drive animals of any description along the highway In simple terms, it's a highway for walkers, riders, cyclists and horse drawn vehicles.

Bushey 36 is a Restricted Byway Photograph courtesy Chris Beney (2006)

References
[1] s.47 Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
[2] The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (Commencement No.11 and Savings) Order 2006 (SI 2006 No. 1172).

While every endeavour has been made to give accurate information, the law is complex, subject to different interpretations and subject to change. The contents of this website are offered to help registered supporters and general readers, but do not constitute formal legal advice.
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