To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport if he will bring forward proposals to establish (a) standards and (b) targets to encourage the adoption of unadopted alleyways; and if he will make a statement. (325874)

Under the Highways Act 1980, local highway authorities may adopt public rights of way that they are not currently responsible for maintaining. Such rights of way may include some types of alleyway or other local access routes. It is for individual authorities to decide whether they wish to adopt an alleyway or not, taking account of local priorities and standards.

The Government have no plans to set national standards or targets for the adoption of unadopted alleyways or other rights of way, as we believe this remains a matter for local consideration and decision.

To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport under what legislation a local authority can adopt an alleyway; and if he will make a statement. (325876)

Under the Highways Act 1980, local highway authorities may adopt public rights of way that they are not currently responsible for maintaining. Such rights of way may include some types of alleyway or other local access routes. It is for individual authorities to decide whether they wish to adopt an alleyway or not, taking account of local priorities and standards.