Demos demands urban right to roam

[Paul Mobbs]

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See also http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8705079.stm

The DEMOS report can be downloaded from 
http://www.demos.co.uk/publications/resilientplaces

P.



http://www.planningresource.co.uk/bulletins/Planning-Resource-Daily-
Bulletin/News/1005804/Demos-demands-urban-right-roam/

Demos demands urban right to roam

Huw Morris, PlanningResource, 26th May 2010


Opening access to often forgotten transport paths like disused railway lines 
and historic canal routes would restart an urban renaissance, thinktank Demos 
said today.

Ten years after the Countryside Rights of Way Act 2000 was introduced to the 
English countryside, a Demos report calls for an urban right to roam to to 
help people connect to the built environment and feel more rooted in a "Big 
Society". 

Report co-author Samuel Jones said: "The history of big societies are etched 
into the landscapes of Britain. Urban infrastructure like canals and old 
railway lines is the foundation of strong, vibrant communities. 

"But ordinary people won’t be able to really be part of this society without 
the access, and freedom to make the communities their own."

In parallel with proposals for a Big Society Bank, Demos said the coalition 
government should focus on tackling the hurdles which can thwart grass-roots 
community activities such as health and safety regulation, waste management 
plans, licensing and risk assessments. 

Free legal aid and advice would provide a bank of skills and time to 
individuals and groups organising local festivals or sports days to help them 
turn ideas into reality.


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