Looks like public access to private land scuppered
February 24, 2007
It looks like the government bullies will have to tuck their tails between their legs over this one:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/3972181a10.html
Queen's Chain plan to be axed
The Press understands a consultation panel headed by South Canterbury farmer John Acland has recommended Rural Affairs Minister Damien O'Connor ditch plans to force open large tracts of the countryside to public access through legislation.
Instead, the panel has recommended the Government reaffirm the private land rights of farmers and set up a travelling agency with the power to hear district access issues and negotiate solutions with farmers and the public.
In return, farmers are understood to have agreed to allow walkers the right to use the large number of paper roads that criss-cross the country. Where these are unsuitable, the agency could hold talks on a land swap in return for the deletion of the paper road.
Better signposting of rights-of-way and areas where the public can walk or drive are recommended.
This is excellent news!
http://www.stuff.co.nz/3972181a10.html
Queen's Chain plan to be axed
The Press understands a consultation panel headed by South Canterbury farmer John Acland has recommended Rural Affairs Minister Damien O'Connor ditch plans to force open large tracts of the countryside to public access through legislation.
Instead, the panel has recommended the Government reaffirm the private land rights of farmers and set up a travelling agency with the power to hear district access issues and negotiate solutions with farmers and the public.
In return, farmers are understood to have agreed to allow walkers the right to use the large number of paper roads that criss-cross the country. Where these are unsuitable, the agency could hold talks on a land swap in return for the deletion of the paper road.
Better signposting of rights-of-way and areas where the public can walk or drive are recommended.
This is excellent news!