Specialist Rights of Way, Access & Public Law Consultancy
I help individuals, landowners, community groups, local authorities and campaigners navigate complex rights of way and public authority decision-making with clear, practical, carefully structured support.
From definitive map questions and obstruction cases to planning enforcement, evidence preparation and public law complaints, I focus on helping clients present their case clearly, strategically and effectively.
Public rights of way and access disputes often sit at the intersection of law, evidence, local authority and lived reality; they can quickly become overwhelming.
My work is focused on bringing order, clarity and structure to that process - whether you are investigating a right of way problem, responding to a public body, preparing objections or submissions, or trying to understand the strongest legal route forward.
Media & Recognition
My work on public rights of way, access and related public interest issues has been recognised through coverage and interview appearances across national and local media.
This has included coverage in The Times, BBC Online, BBC Breakfast, BBC News at One, BBC Morning Live, Country Living, CornwallLive, the Cornish Times and BBC Radio 4.
The issues covered have included blocked rights of way, historic access, public safety, route protection and the importance of effective public authority decision-making in matters affecting communities and the wider countryside.
Media coverage is only one part of the picture, but it reflects the depth of my long-standing engagement with rights of way, access and public accountability issues.
Historical & Archival research
Locating, reviewing, and analysing historical material, including tithe and enclosure maps, estate maps, OS mapping, Finance Act records, land tax and valuation material, field books and farming survey materials, title and conveyancing plans, National Archives and local archive sources.
Evidence, Submissions & Case Preparation
Chronologies, document review, drafting and support, written representations, statement preparation, bundle organisation and case analysis.
Hearings & Inquiries
Support in preparing for hearings and inquiries, including written submissions, evidence structure and representation at non-court hearings/inquiries where permitted.
Public Rights of Way & Access
Advice and support on obstructions, definitive map issues, historical evidence, Schedule 14 applications, path orders, local authority duties and access-related disputes.
Assisting Public Bodies with Statutory Duties and Decision Making
Support with understanding and applying statutory duties relating to public rights of way and access, reviewing evidence, records and historical material, identifying or refining correspondence, notices, reports and written response, and supporting lawful, clear and well reasoned public authority responses in complex or sensitive cases.
Public Law & Public Authority Decision-Making
Strategic support where councils and other public bodies have failed to act lawfully, rationally or fairly, including complaints, ombudsman escalation and pre-action preparation.