Site visits aren’t always as glamorous as they might appear

The photos usually capture the best bits such as the views, the landscape, and the potential of a site. The reality is often a little different. More often than not, it involves walking through long grass, climbing over uneven ground, and finding your way along routes that haven’t seen much maintenance for some time.

On a recent site visit, we came across a public right of way that was so overgrown it was difficult to tell where the path actually was. By the time we reached it, we were committed, so there was nothing for it but to keep going. It certainly made the visit more memorable than expected.

Moments like this are a good reminder of why getting out on site is so important. No plan, aerial image or desk study can fully capture how a place feels on the ground or the challenges people might face when moving through it.

It was also a reminder of the value of public rights of way. Whether they’re used every day by local residents or occasionally by people looking to explore the countryside, they play an important role in connecting people to places. Keeping them accessible isn’t just about maintenance. It’s about ensuring everyone can experience and enjoy the landscape.