RIGHTS OF WAY IN THE PARISH OF LEIGH
Leigh parish is fortunate in that it possesses over 50 Rights of way which occur in a variety of landscapes. While the first record of a footpath in Leigh occurred in the village map of 1805 there is little doubt that they existed for many years before that date, indeed many may well date back to Medieval times, and were used by farmers and village folk as they went about their daily activities. All the Rights of Way are accessible to both residents and visitors, indeed many lead directly from the centre of the village, as is shown below in the photograph of a fingerpost leading from Back Drove to footpath N18/46
Unfortunately some footpaths cross stiles which can cause problems for the disabled, this problem has been recognized by Dorset County Council and it is now their policy to erect gates in place of where a need is demonstrated. With the passage of time the orientation of some ROW have changed, but in most cases the present pattern of Rights of Way is a fair reflection of the pattern which dates back many centuries.

The two photographs below illustrate the quite different characteristics found in the Rights of Way in Leigh Parish. The top photo shows the bridlepath leading to footpath N18/25 from the Batcombe Road, and the lower photograph illustrates part of Church Lane Footpath N18/8.

The opportunity to use footpaths as a recreational asset is now recognized as an essential part of both rural and urban life, hence it is important that Footpaths, Bridleways, and Byways are maintained in good order. Rights of Way are maintained by Dorset County Council, but those who use the Rights of Way also have a part to play in their upkeep, in every case members of the public are encouraged to follow the Countryside Code. Those who use our footpaths should be aware that underfoot conditions can vary considerably even within short distances since much of Leigh Parish is underlain by clays and some areas can still be quite wet even after extended period of dry weather. Also those who use our footpaths should remain vigilant since some footpaths cross pasture land and they could encounter livestock.

All new residents of Leigh receive a Welcome Pack which contains a map showing all the Rights Of way in the Parish. If any-one would like a copy then the Footpath Liaison Officer would be delighted to supply one . He can be contacted on 01935873172 or at trevorevans61@uwclub.net.
We hope you will enjoy our footpaths as much as we do.