Public Rights of Way Officer; Mapping

Description

Salary £36,363-£40,777 Per annum | Permanent, Full Time, 37 hours per week | Highways

International Sponsorship – this role is not open to international sponsorship

An exciting opportunity for a graduate or experienced person has arisen within the Council’s Highways Network Management Service for the position of Definitive Map Officer. The role is to carry out Lancashire County Council's statutory duties and powers with respect to the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way in Lancashire within a small team of public rights of way officers.

This involves writing committee reports and presenting them at Regulatory Committee, drafting definitive map modification orders and public path orders and notices, analysing objections, drafting statements of case and giving evidence at public inquiry. The role also manages the Public Rights of Way GIS mapping to record changes to the Definitive Map and Statement, diversions, temporary closures, etc.

• Investigate and resolve applications for definitive map modification orders from external customers or requests from inside the Council
• Follow and document the procedures prescribed by the relevant legislation, policy and working practice documents
• Communicate effectively with landowners, neighbours, users, local politicians
• Present reports at Regulatory Committee (County Councillors) and give evidence at public inquiries or court where necessary
• Take a lead in maintaining the Public Rights of Way GIS datasets
• Research and record details of particular public rights of way to assist other members of the team, in particular widths and limitations
• Develop innovative ways to improve the service in conjunction with the Public Rights of Way Manager and other colleagues
• Ensure all work is recorded in accordance with the team's practices and that the Public Rights of Way Manager or other relevant colleagues are kept informed of progress as requested

• Be correct within the framework of public rights of way law
• Protect Lancashire County Council against present and future liability
• Minimise risk to the public
• Provide maximum benefit to users of the public rights of way network
• Be in accord with policy and documented working practice

We want someone who is analytical, an effective communicator and loves maps. You’ll use your skills responding to applications from members of the public requesting changes to the public rights of way network, researching historical documents, analysing information, visiting sites and producing objective reports before making a variety of legal orders.

When necessary you’ll represent the Council at public inquiries.

You’ll ideally have a relevant degree or equivalent qualification, significant experience in public rights of way and a talent for research. You should possess a confident, diplomatic and persuasive personality to negotiate, present to and influence different people.

You’ll also need to have, or the aptitude to gain, strong knowledge of relevant legislation. This role demands a sharp eye for detail, good map‑reading and GIS skills.

By joining our friendly and supportive team you will help modernise and maintain the Council’s legal record of Public Rights of Way.

The post is based at County Hall, Preston, but travel around the county will be required and flexible working is offered.

For an informal chat about this opportunity please contact Jayne Elliott, Definitive Map Officer at  or John Davies, Highways Network Management Manager at .

In return Lancashire County Council offers a range of benefits, which can be found on the LCC vacancies website.

We reserve the right to close down a vacancy early, before the closing date, if we receive sufficient applications.

Please ensure you have uploaded and attached your supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role.

You will be required to provide a car for use in connection with the duties of this post and must be insured for business use. However, we may consider you if you cannot drive because of a disability.

Closing Date; 31/07/2026