Local Access Forum (LAF)

The Local Access Forum (LAF) is independent from the County Council and advises on countryside matters.

They offer advice to:

• Nottinghamshire County Council

• District, borough and parish councils

• Natural England

• Central government, and others.

The LAF aims to:

• safeguard the character of Nottinghamshire's countryside
  improve public access

• encourage enjoyment of our rights of way network.

The LAF was set up in 2003 as a requirement of the Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW Act). This was also when open access land was first introduced.

The members of the LAF are local people, balanced between those who:

• access the countryside

• manage the land

• or have an interest in the local community and conservation.

They work together to improve access for all users of the countryside whilst protecting biodiversity and the legitimate interests of landowners.