Code of Conduct for Carriage Drivers in Welsh Assembly Woodlands

 

Instruction

• A carriage driving permit is required on all Welsh Assembly Government Woodlands apart from designated and waymarked routes in Dyfnant near Welshpool and the forest roads incorporated in the Crychan Trails near Llandovery where there is an open access policy for carriage drivers. You also have a legal entitlement to drive on a Byway Open to all Traffic (BOAT) or a Restricted Byway.
• For a carriage driving permit please contact your local Forest District Office or Local Area Manager or tel: 0845 604 0845.
• If you wish to drive in Welsh Assembly Government Woodlands other than in the area on your permit, please contact the relevant Forest District Office or Local Area Manager or tel: 0845 604 0845.
• Restrict your driving to forest roads or designated and waymarked carriage driving routes.
• Respect other users in the forest and always be friendly.
• Remember that you are likely to meet other users driving different types of vehicles on forest roads.
• Follow the Countryside Code.
• Report accidents, near misses and obstructions to the Forest District Office or the Local Area Manager of the area where these have occurred or tel: 0845 604 0845.
• Pay attention to all warning signs and adhere to their instructions.
• Do not drive faster than a trot at any time.
• For Health & Safety reasons, carriages should be parked and horses tethered in designated areas near, but not on picnic sites, as these are used by a variety of different groups.
• Leave parking areas and gateways clean and tidy.
• Park in designated horsebox parking areas where available and park sensibly to allow maximum space for other users. Parking areas will be agreed when carriage driving permissions are granted.
• Be aware that other users may have designated trails in the area you are using – check first if in doubt.

Guidance

• Follow the British Driving Society Duty of Care & Accident Prevention guidelines.
• Carry a mobile phone in case of emergencies (remember that there is limited or no reception coverage in some areas).
• Tell someone where you are going and how long you intend to be away.
• Check the FC Wales website for up to date information on what facilities are available.
• Check the CCW website for current and future closures as determined by the CRoW 2000 Act.
• Wear high visibility clothing so that others can see you.

Revised June 2007.