The Definitive Map and Statement

The Definitive Map and Statement are the legal record of the public's rights to use footpaths, bridleways and byways.

Public rights of way mapping based on the Definitive Map is available using the Online Mapping application. Start by using the 'Help' tab if you haven't used this application before. Zoom in to the area you want to view and expand the Public Rights of Way options in the 'Map Features' section then choose which categories of route you wish to have displayed on the map. Use the hand shaped 'select' tool to obtain basic identification information such as the parish and path number of your chosen path by clicking on the line of the path. Further information such as the length of the path and grid references for the start and finish can be obtained from the Definitive Map details link below.

View the online register of definitive map modification order applications.

A number of the most frequently asked questions are answered below:

What is 'the Definitive Map'?

It is actually many separate maps that show the routes of the thousands of individual public footpaths, bridleways, 'restricted byways' and 'byways open to all traffic' recorded throughout Cheshire. These maps, together with the Definitive Statements for each route, are the legal record of the public's rights along them. Most of these maps are at a scale of 1:10560 (ie 6 inches = 1 mile or about 10cm = 1km)

What is 'the Statement'?

The Definitive Statement for each right of way describes the route and any restrictions on its use. The Statements for most of Cheshire's paths are very brief! Those for new paths are more informative.

Can I rely on Ordnance Survey maps to show rights of way accurately?

Definitive maps are, more often than not, printed at a scale of 1:10,560 or 1:10,000 so there is a slight reduction in the precision with which the exact line of a path can be shown when transferred to 1:25,000 or 1:50,000 mapping. Even so these maps are more than adequate for most purposes - navigation, study or planning your walk or ride. You should be aware that published OS mapping can never be completely up to date as change is ever present - as true for rights of way as it is for any other aspect of the landscape. However you can expect that much the greater part of the path network will be accurately shown on the latest maps available in the shops.

When was the Map published?

Preparation of the Map started in the early 1950's, following the passing of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. Initial surveys were carried out by town/parish councils and walking groups. A lengthy consultation process involving landowners and path users eventually led to the publication of the Definitive Maps for most of Cheshire, in the years between 1966 and 1974.

The urban areas of Chester City and central Macclesfield (and some other urban areas no longer in Cheshire) were omitted from the survey at that time. Maps for these two areas were published in 1997.

How up-to-date is the Definitive Map then?

Since publication, various legal orders have been made to modify the Definitive Map. These reflect the numerous path diversions, creations, closures and other changes which have occurred since the map was prepared. The Council is working towards publishing a 'consolidated Definitive Map' for Cheshire which will incorporate all these changes.  Meanwhile the Council keeps updated working copies of the Map available for public inspection.

Where can I see the Definitive Map?

The original Map(s) and the working copies are available for public inspection during normal office hours, at the Rights of Way Office. No prior appointment is necessary but you are advised to contact the Unit beforehand to ensure that an officer is on hand to assist with any queries you might have regarding the map. Each town and parish council hold copies for their areas. Each of these was updated towards the end of 2003.  Those held at the council offices are available for inspection free of charge during normal office hours.  Please note however that, apart from those Maps held at the Rights of Way office in Crewe, they cannot be guaranteed to be 100% up-to-date nor should you expect expert advice on their interpretation to be available.  You can also contact your local parish clerk if you wish to view the Map for a particular parish - but the same warning applies!

What does 'Definitive' mean?

The appearance of a path on the Definitive Map is conclusive proof of its existence in law. However the reverse is not true. The fact that a right of way is not recorded on the Map, along a particular route, is not evidence that there is no right of way along that route. Similarly, higher rights eg bridle rights, may exist along a route shown only as a public footpath.

What can I do if I think the Map is inaccurate or incomplete?

You can apply to the Council for the addition of a path to the Definitive Map (or a deletion), or for a change in the status of any route shown on it. However, since the map is deemed to be legally conclusive proof of the existence of the public rights shown on it, you will need to supply strong evidence to support your claim. Given sufficient evidence, the Council is obliged to make a Definitive Map Modification Order to effect the change.

To apply for a Definitive Map Modification Order Application, contact the Public Rights of Way Team.