We call on the Government to introduce legislation prohibiting the installation of new barbed wire fencing immediately adjacent to public rights of way, including footpaths, bridleways and byways.

We also call on the Government to require that where existing barbed wire fencing alongside public rights of way becomes damaged, collapsed or requires replacement, it must be repaired using safer alternatives rather than new barbed wire. We believe current laws do not provide sufficient protection from foreseeable injuries caused by hazardous fencing positioned next to routes regularly used by walkers, cyclists, horse riders, children and dogs. Poorly maintained fencing can cause serious and avoidable harm to people, pets, livestock and wildlife. The law should better protect public safety while allowing landowners to secure their land using safer fencing options.