Diversions under section 119 of the Highways Act 1980

Legislation
Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980, as amended by Schedule 2 of the Transport and Works Act 1992 and Schedule 6 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, allows Local Authorities to make Public Path Diversion Orders (footpaths and bridleways)

These orders are made in the interests of landowners and the public.
 
Local authorities can also divert footpaths or bridleways which cross railways for safety reasons.

The following types of Diversion Order are covered by this legislation: -

Section 119 Highways Act 1980 - diversions for securing the efficient use of land or providing a shorter or more commodious path

Section 119A Highways Act 1980 - diversion of paths crossing railway lines other than by a bridge or tunnel, made in the interests of public safety.

Section 119B Highways Act 1980 - diversion of certain highways for the purposes of crime prevention in designated areas (includes restricted byways and byways open to all traffic)

Section 119C Highways Act 1980 - a special diversion of certain highways crossing school premises for purpose of protecting staff and pupils from:

• Violence.
• Threat of violence.
• Harassment.
• Alarm or distress arising from unlawful activity.
• Any other risk to their health and safety arising from such activity (includes restricted byways and byways open to all traffic)

Section 119D Highways Act 1980 (not yet commenced) - diversion of certain highways for the protection of sites of special scientific interest (SSSI)

Section 119ZA Highways Act 1980 (not yet commenced) - diversion of paths made in the interest of owners, lessees or occupiers of land used for agriculture, forestry or the breeding or keeping of horses.

For the complete legislation and guidance notes see the links from the right of this page.