NFU supports launch of new look Countryside Code

The NFU made several recommendations for changes to the Countryside Code, which were adopted when Natural England launched its refreshed advice on 1 April 2021.

NFU Deputy President Stuart Roberts said:

“It’s important that people follow the simple rules and respect the countryside around them. The NFU has been working closely with Defra and Natural England on a refresh of the messaging in the Code to bring it up to date and to help address the recent increase in access-related issues such as keeping to public rights of way, ensuring dogs are under control and dog waste is binned. We are pleased that many of our recommendations have been included.

“The iconic British countryside offers a multitude of benefits to the public, including exercise and recreation, the opportunity to learn about where our food comes from and how our stunning landscapes are maintained. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the countryside has been invaluable in Britain’s recovery, with millions of people visiting during lockdown to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

“As we highlight in the NFU’s recent Levelling up rural Britain report, it is important that rural access and engagement is recognised and respected and that the modern-day rights of way network benefits both farmers and the public.

"The NFU, government and other stakeholders will be promoting the new look Code and its core messages to ensure everyone who visits the countryside is provided with greater awareness of the need to keep safe and responsible as well as the role farming plays in shaping our much-loved working landscapes.”

NFU members: Download our briefing on the revised Countryside Code which includes details of the changes requested by the NFU and adopted by Natural England