Please find attached the map of footpaths in the parish. The opportunity to have a path added to the definitive map of footpaths on grounds of historic use will end in 2026 so if there are any paths you would like added please contact our footpaths representatives Gill Tagg and Caroline Kent (contact details to follow shortly but meanwhile please contact the Clerk clerk@staploe-pc.gov.uk)
For an interactive map use the link below. You will need to agree to the T&C’s for using ArcGIS. Then zoom into the area you are interested in first using the + – icons in the top left corner of the map (they can be hard to see).
Bedford Borough Interactive Map
Then Click on the 
symbol for local information and select rights of way.
That will show you all the rights of way in the area according to the definitive map. If you keep clicking on a right of way it will zoom in and then open a dialogue box with the relevant reference number for that footpath.
If you wish to report a problem with a footpath please report it on https://highwaysreporting.bedford.gov.uk/ or to highways.helpdesk@bedford.gov.uk or 01234 718 003. Our parish footpaths representatives are Caroline Kent and Gill Tagg
The Government has allowed until 1st January 2026 for any ‘Lost Ways’, i.e. paths that have been used in the past but not captured on the Definitive Map of the Local Authority, to be identified. After this time no old paths or tracks will be allowed to be added to the Definitive Map using historical evidence. This move should remove uncertainty for developers as to whether any developments could be disrupted by the identification of a historic path or track through the development which could then lead to the creation of a new public right of way.
Please find below a briefing note / paper generated by Bedford Borough Council which describes how ‘Lost Ways’ might be identified and what sort of information is required to enable the Borough Council to start the process of incorporating any Lost Ways into the Public Right of Way Network. Whilst resources prevent Bedford Borough proactively looking for Lost Ways they will, if there is sufficient interest, hold a Workshop on how Parish Councils or individuals might gather sufficient information for the Borough Council to take identified paths through the legal process required for them to become Public Rights of Way.
Please can you advise the Parish Clerk if would be interested in attending such a workshop. clerk@staploe-pc.gov.uk
Advice on how to add unrecorded routes to the definitive map
Guide to Rights of Way for Farmers and Landowners.
Roadside Nature Reserves