What's your interpretation?

So you are trundling along a legal highway and you encounter the dreaded flying motorcycle sign (over a car in a red circle) that effectively tries to ban all motorised vehicles...

..."Except for Access"...

What's your interpretation of "access" and perhaps more importantly what's the law's interpretation?


Specifically I know a really good UCR without any TRO or anything like that but it does have these signs at either end. And my take on it is that I want access so it's ok - but this kinda makes the whole signage thing pointless. Anyway - I'd be curious to know what you think.

It's not do you want access it's do you need access ie do you need to be there for reasons other than pleasure or sightseeing. If in doubt contact the relevant council because if someone photographs you in land you've got no rights being on expect a visit from the law

Not strictly true - parking up and walking a dog can be considered "access" by some.

As I say the land in question is a fully legal Unsurfaced County Road (UCR) and I've confirmed with the local Rights of Way Officer that it's considered by them to be exactly that. Also that whilst they can't say I can drive on it they can't say that I can't either. Just at either end they have the "Except for Access" sign - which has always been a mystery to me.

TBH when I'm in my car on the normal roads I pay these signs no attention whatsoever.

I'd be more concearned about them on a UCR or Boat though.

There is a TRO on that road. I know the Dales National Park have said there isn't, but the TRO is not theirs.

Its a North Yorkshire County Council one which is still in force.

I have already asked them to look into why the NP is giving conflicting advice to that given by their highways department.

When I get a proper answer I will let everyone know.

In the meantime I have informed everyone that there is a TRO on this lane