NFU raises concerns and offers advice on visiting countryside in Lancaster district

The NFU has raised concerns about the amount of people taking to the countryside amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Some of the issues raised include an increased use of footpaths that run through, or close to, farmyards and gardens which could put people who live and work in rural areas at risk.

There is also concern about an increased risk to livestock and newborn lambs due to more people walking dogs in the countryside.

People are being advised not to travel far to take exercise, and many National Parks and popular walking routes are closed or inaccessible, meaning members of the public are looking for alternative, perhaps lesser trodden walks closer to home.

Defra has provided the option for farmers to offer alternative routes and has issued notices for farmers to put up to alert the public to the guidance so that everyone can remain safe.

The guidance clarifies that the rights of way network remains open and owners/occupiers should not unlawfully obstruct or restrict the rights of way network.

However, where large numbers of people are using such routes, landowners may consider the following measures:

Tying gates open if it is safe to do so, so that walkers do not need to touch the gate.

Temporarily displaying polite notices that encourage users to respect local residents and workers by following social distancing guidelines and consider using alternative routes that do not pass through gardens, farmyards or schools.

NFU North West spokesman Carl Hudspith, who is isolating with his family in Bolton-le-Sands, said : “NFU members have been concerned over the volume of people who have been flocking to the countryside.

"This is causing anxiety to our members, particularly if they have family members in at-risk groups.

"They see crowds of people in close proximity and many public rights of way go through their farmyards and gardens.

The NFU recognises that there are multiple health and wellness benefits to getting out and enjoying the countryside, we promote this and arguably during this time it may be imperative that the countryside remains open.

"However, we may need emergency measures in place to protect the vulnerable and alleviate anxiety.”