About the Forum

The Broads Local Access Forum is an independent advisory body established by the Broads Authority in 2003, under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

A cropped image of someone crossing a stile

The Act states that the purpose of the Forum is to be a statutory advisory body to provide guidance and advice to the Broads Authority and other organisations on the improvement of public access within the Broads, and to contribute to opportunities for open air recreation and the enjoyment of the area.

In providing advice, the Forum will have regard to:

  • The needs of land management.
  • The conservation of the natural beauty of the area.
  • The management and maintenance of recreational access whilst balancing this against the needs of nature conservation, agriculture, the interests of landowners and managers, and navigation and countryside management projects within the Broads.

The Forum’s vision

The Broads is an unrivalled wetland of natural diversity, heritage and special character. It is a place where people come to explore, enjoy and find spiritual refreshment. Access to the Broads should be clear and easy to use, respectful of wildlife and land management, meet users’ needs and promote responsible and harmonious behaviour.

The Broads Local Access Forum will champion access improvements and management, represent a wide range of interests and contribute to sustainability for the environment, communities and the economy.

What does the Forum do?

  • Gives advice on the Rights of Way and Access Improvement Plan
  • Gives advice on access for all
  • Gives advice on access enhancement opportunities offered by the Broadland Flood Alleviation Project
  • Gives advice on conflicts between user groups
  • Responds to consultations
  • Actively seeks opportunities for partnership working
  • Assists officers by providing a forum for discussion of issues

Who makes up the Forum?

The Forum is made up of between 10 and 22 members appointed by the Broads Authority representing:

  • Recreational users of the countryside.
  • Landowners, occupiers and land managers working in the countryside and making economic gain from it.
  • Other interest groups relevant to the area and with access to it

How can you get involved?

Broads Local Access Forum meetings are open to the public. Periodically, recruitment to the Broads Local Access Forum is necessary and details will be posted on our website and in the local press.

To contact the Broads Local Access Forum, write to:

Secretary to the Broads Local Access Forum
Yare House
62-64 Thorpe Road
Norwich
Norfolk
NR1 1RY
tel 01603 610734
email BLAF@broads-authority.gov.uk

You can also email via our contact form.