The real issue is that too many idiots have been stupid, or irresponsible or disrespectful to lanes and byways - and often the other users and people who live nearby. This has then in turned caused all offroaders (Bikes and 4x4ers) to be all given the stereotype of being the same, when the vast majority are not.
Because 4x4s can and do cause much more damage when used in an irresponsible manner, an unduly amount of attention is paid to it, against the walkers who leave litter, leave gates open, wear away footpaths and damage walls and fences by climbing over them. I've been with people who have been sworn at, spat at, and had stuff thrown at them by walkers and locals - just because they were in a 4x4.
While we still have those in our midst who are happy to go out and tear up lanes for the stake of it, we will always be on the end of a loosing battle. Its becoming easier for authorities to close lanes, to save them on repair costs, and them being churned up in the first place than it is for them to keep them open.
As part of the drive to keep the countryside open for ALL users, we need the facility to weed out those in the community who are spoiling it for all of us, and take action ourselves to make sure lanes are looked after. GLASS and other associations do a good job but it would be even better if we had the ability to help the councils maintain the lanes for all, it would save them money, and give us a better reputation
Joel
