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| Promoting safe, legal Green Laning and Off Road driving for 4x4's | |||||||
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The phrase "Green Laning" conjours up different images to different people, often because they do not know what it actaully involves. Green laning is not off roading, in fact it is almost the opposite. The definition of a green lane is a legal right of way for motorised vehicles that typically has little or no "proper" road surface. Green lanes vary from tarmac with grass up the middle to earth or grass tracks. Off roading is different, following no public right of way. Often, green laning gets a bad name because of the actions of some irresponsible people who drive where they should not be, either because they don't check or they don't care. The majority of people who enjoy this activity do so legally and safely using known routes and driving in a way that shows respect for other trail users such as cyclists, walkers and horse riders. Afterall, the lanes are there for everybody. You can find out which routes are open by asking your local council who will have a nominated officer responsible. Alternatively you can ask enthusiast organisations such as GLASS (The Green Lane ASSociation) or local clubs, although these often require a membership. The cost is usually very little, especially compared to the possibility of a £2000 fine and having your vehicle confiscated! Due to the recent NERC bill that has been passed in parliament, many regional councils are carrying out reviews of the lanes and byways in their area. This has led to some being closed to motorised vehicles permanently, or temporarily. It is always worth finding out what the current status is of lanes you want to travel, as they do change and you could be caught out. The best way to keep as many lanes open as we can is to work with registered organisations like GLASS to fight closures legally. Illegal use of closed lanes just adds to the negative opinion that brought about the NERC bill in the first place. Somestimes you do find that other users of a lane believe you should not be there. The best approach is to courteously explain that you are not just driving up it because it is there, but that you have carefully planned the route in advance to ensure you are only using legitimate rights of way for vehicles. Being able to show them on a map or satellite navigation system where you currently are and explain why the route is legal often resolves confrontation. If on the rare occasion you are faced with hostility or deliberate obstruction you should report it to the police, preferably with photographic evidence where you can and a clear position on a map. Remember, you are driving legally on a public road so anyone preventing you from passing is breaking the law! |
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