Exploring preferences towards the provision of farmland walking trails: A supply and demand perspective

Despite the potential benefits accruing from use of the rural landscape, access to farmland is a contentious issue with many landowners restricting public access. Within this context, this paper first explores general public preferences and willingness to pay for farmland walking trails in the Irish countryside. Second this paper examines farmers’ willingness to participate in a hypothetical walking scheme whereby the general public will be allowed access to specific trails. Results suggest that individuals are not a homogeneous group with regard to their preferences for farmland walking trails. From a supply perspective, this paper identified significant regional variations in farmers’ attitudes relating to public access. More generally, the analysis presented here would suggest that there is significant scope for policy intervention to improve public access to the countryside.

► Respondents preferred relatively shorter walking trails and had a strong demand for relevant trail infrastructure.
► Individuals cannot be considered a homogeneous group with regard to their preferences for farmland walking trails.
► A significant cohort of farmers are willing to allow public access to their land for free.
► There were significant spatial variations in farmers’ opinions regarding public access.
► Significant scope for policy approaches that support improved public access provision.