How much does the Welsh Government provide to local authorities for the maintenance and upkeep of footpaths?
Local authorities receive a settlement each year to fund services and statutory responsibilities such as public rights of way maintenance. This is un-hypothecated and as such it is for local authorities and their elected councils to determine how they fund each of their service areas. Core funding for Local Government for 2023-24 increased by 7.9% or £403 million on a like-for-like basis compared to the previous year.
During 2022-25 the Welsh Government will also fund a 3-year capital Access Improvement Grant, totalling £5.6 million, to Local and National Park Authorities that have public rights of way responsibilities. This will enable authorities to enhance recreational access to the countryside including physical improvements to footpaths. This represents a significant increase in support for Local Authorities over previous years and is already having a positive impact.