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The draft document sets out how walkers, horse riders and cyclists should have access to a wide range of well-maintained and well-connected public rights of way.

Lead county cabinet member for transport and environment Cllr Matthew Lock said: "There will always be great pressures on our rights of way budget and we won't be able to deliver everything people will want to see - but we are keen to identify where the priorities are so that we can tackle them when we are in a position to allocate the necessary funding.

"Rights of way don't just provide views and link villages and sites of interest, they make an important contribution to the county's rural economy.

"If you use footpaths, byways or bridleways in East Sussex, or would like to do so, we would urge you to get involved in this consultation and let us have your views. That will allow our improvement plan to reflect what people want."

The 10 year plan is being produced in draft form for a 14-week public consultation before it is published at the end of 2007 and will feature potential new routes to avoid busy roads and encourage residents to get out and about. It will also show where improved path crossings of roads may be needed, as well potential upgrades of existing pathways.

It is hoped the plan will also support tourism, improve health and provide learning resources about the countryside.

Residents can comment by logging on to www.eastsussex.gov.uk/currentconsultations and completing the online questionnaire or by downloading and completing the form electronically and emailing it to [email protected]

To respond in writing, please send comments to Rights of Way Improvement Plan, Transport and Environment, East Sussex County Council, FREEPOST LW43, County Hall, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1UE. Responses must be received by Friday, March 23, 2007.