Local councils are struggling to clear blockages and obstructions across the public footpath network.

cross-posted from: https://feddit.uk/post/6632877

Walkers wanting to enjoy footpaths across the British countryside are being blocked or obstructed in nearly 32,000 places across England and Wales.

But they are fighting back, with one rambler even training as a lawyer to force councils to keep the way clear.

A BBC investigation found councils which have responsibility for footpaths had 4,000 more access issues on public rights of way in 2023 than in 2022.

Campaigners said this showed a “growing abuse and neglect” of the path network.

Local authorities said “funding constraints” limited what they can do.