New members are being sought for the Devon Countryside Access Forum (DCAF).

The statutory forum is concerned with improving recreational access to the countryside and improving green space and provision for cycling and walking in our villages and towns. Supported by Devon County Council, it has fifteen volunteer members who meet four or five times a year to consider a wide range of policy issues aimed at making the countryside more accessible and enjoyable.

At both a national and local level, Forum members have a statutory role in advising on and promoting access improvements. They are involved in providing independent advice on a wide range of issues covering not only recreation but also sustainable transport, health and tourism. With health and fitness high on the agenda, a major focus is encouraging more people to get out and about and use opportunities on their doorsteps.

Over the past year the Forum has provided advice to the Government on its coastal access proposals and to the Forestry Commission on the public forest estate. It has visited the Neroche Project in East Devon to view access improvements, particularly for those with limited mobility. 2009 also saw the opening of the strategic bridleway at Thorndon Cross, near Okehampton.

The main strength of the DCAF is that is brings together a wide range of people with experience, interests and commitment in areas relevant to recreation and access.

Terry Faull, Chairman of the Devon Countryside Access Forum, said: "The next three years are going to be interesting and also challenging for the Devon Countryside Access Forum.

"Implementation of coastal access, encouraging walking for health schemes and the development of green infrastructure programmes are examples of where the Forum’s advice will be needed by local and national policy makers.

"This will have to be set in an environment of budget pressures and with emphasis on protecting Devon's natural and historic environment and safeguarding the interests of land managers.

"As an independent advisory body, the Forum is able to have real influence on the development of strategies which will determine how our countryside will be enjoyed and used both now and in the future."

Councillor Roger Croad, Cabinet Member for Environmental and Regulatory Services said: "This Forum is really important for improving recreational access to our countryside for both local residents and visitors. I would encourage anyone who has an interest in this area to get in touch and find out how to become involved."

If you are interested in being appointed as one of the Forum’s fifteen members the closing date is Friday 26 February 2010.

Application forms and details can be found online at www.devon.gov.uk/devon_countryside_access_forum. Alternatively, contact the secretary on 01837 810921 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

If you want to learn more about the Forum the next public meeting is on Tuesday, 9th February at 10am at County Hall, and will include a presentation by Joy Ede, historic environment specialist with Natural England.

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