This Order brings into force on 1st October 2007, in relation to England, the remainder of section 69 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (“the 2000 Act”). (Section 69(2) is already in force.)

Section 69(1) of the 2000 Act inserts subsections (2A) and (2B) in section 147 of the Highways Act 1980 (c. 66) (“the 1980 Act”): section 147(2A) of the 1980 Act requires a competent authority exercising their powers under section 147(2) (in considering whether to authorise the erection of stiles, gates or other works) to have regard to the needs of persons with mobility problems; section 147(2B) permits the Secretary of State to issue guidance to competent authorities as to matters to be taken into account by competent authorities when exercising their powers under section 147(2), and requires those authorities to have regard to any such guidance.

Section 69(3) of the 2000 Act inserts a new section 147ZA into the 1980 Act: section 147ZA enables competent authorities to enter into agreements with owners, lessees or occupiers of land for the replacement or improvement of stiles, gates or other structures so as to result in a structure that is safer or more convenient for use by persons with mobility problems.