Navigating Salisbury Plain: A Greenlaner's Guide

Salisbury Plain, a vast expanse of stunning natural beauty and historical significance, is widely recognised as a premier destination for off-road driving in the UK. Its iconic landscape, rich with ancient routes and unmade tracks, offers a unique allure for those seeking adventure beyond the tarmac. However, this privilege comes with a profound responsibility. As custodians of this remarkable environment, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) facilitates public access, but it is paramount that every driver understands and respects the delicate balance required to preserve this special place for future generations.

For many, the appeal of Salisbury Plain lies in its network of 'greenlanes'. These are, in essence, historic arteries that have criss-crossed the British countryside for centuries. Legally known as Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs) or unclassified roads, they represent a fascinating glimpse into our past, often serving as ancient droveways once used for herding livestock to market, or as the earliest means of travel between towns and cities. Highway law, fortunately, protects these pieces of history, allowing the public to enjoy them today. Unlike modern tarmac roads, greenlanes are typically unmade tracks, composed of grass, stone, or earth, with surfaces that are inherently unpredictable. This variability, coupled with reduced directional signage, demands varying degrees of skill and careful navigation to ensure a safe and successful journey.

The MOD operates on a presumption of public access to its land when it's not being actively used for military training and where it's deemed safe. This policy allows a diverse range of activities, from dog walking and cycling to horse riding and, indeed, driving. The unique aspect of Salisbury Plain is that the Salisbury Plain Military Byelaws specifically permit the use of roads made up for vehicular purposes when they are not subject to military operations. This provision complements the existing network of historical BOATs, creating a comprehensive system for vehicular access. The Plain offers a spectrum of trails, from more forgiving 'permissive tracks' suitable for less experienced drivers to the more challenging 'true greenlanes' that test the mettle of seasoned off-roaders.

However, beneath its rugged charm, Salisbury Plain harbours a profound environmental sensitivity. At least 50% of the Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) is covered by ecological designations. This is because the environment has largely remained unharmed by modern intensive agriculture, allowing a rich tapestry of wildlife to flourish. These designations are not merely bureaucratic labels; they set stringent parameters within which the military must conduct its training requirements, safeguarding the unique flora and fauna. Consequently, even the military's use of the Plain is significantly limited during wet periods, precisely because of the potential for environmental damage.

Unfortunately, these strict limitations on use during adverse weather cannot be as easily applied to public access of BOATs. The persistent use of these tracks in wet conditions by the public can lead to progressive surface damage and severe erosion. Such wanton damage to a public highway is not only irresponsible but is also a criminal offence, potentially inhibiting the use of the way by others. Moreover, as a route becomes increasingly obstructed by poor conditions, users are often forced to divert from the established path. This, in turn, causes further damage to neighbouring land, creating a vicious cycle of degradation that harms the very landscape greenlaners seek to enjoy.

The dangers of diverting from proper routes extend far beyond environmental damage. In certain areas of the Plain, leaving marked public rights of way can inadvertently lead users into active military training areas, where they could directly impact ongoing operations or, more critically, place themselves at grave risk due to the presence of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO). Furthermore, such diversions can cause substantial harm to sensitive agricultural land, delicate habitats, vital bird nesting sites, and much more. In some locations, irreparable damage to the highway itself can even be considered an act of damaging an historical feature, undermining centuries of heritage.

As the custodians of Salisbury Plain, the MOD actively seeks the support of all users in adopting best practice when visiting. The Environmental Support and Compliance Team (ESC) Access and Recreation Team works tirelessly with key stakeholders to raise awareness, educate the public, promote good practice, and undertake vital voluntary work on site. This collaborative approach is fundamental to preserving the Plain. A significant initiative has been the identification of particularly sensitive BOATs that are best avoided during the wetter winter months. This led to the introduction of Voluntary Restraint.

Voluntary restraint is a proactive measure designed to encourage users to adopt alternative routes for a temporary period, thereby preventing further damage to vulnerable BOATs. The selection of these routes is a joint effort, led by Wiltshire Council with crucial input from organisations such as the Green Lane Association (GLASS) and the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF), all supported by the DIO. This collaborative spirit ensures that decisions are informed and widely endorsed. By choosing to avoid these designated routes during periods of high vulnerability, users directly contribute to their recovery, ensuring they remain enjoyable and accessible for years to come.

To support this initiative, the DIO works with volunteers from greenlaning groups like Treadlightly, GLASS, TRF, Wiltshire Council, and local enthusiasts to erect clear signage on site, advising users of the voluntary restraint areas. Beyond this, there is an ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the byways. Collaboration between the DIO and Wiltshire Council facilitates BOAT repairs on the Salisbury Plain Training Area, enhancing these routes for both military and public use. This continuous effort underscores the shared responsibility of preserving this magnificent landscape.

To ensure a safe and responsible experience, all greenlaners are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with best practices. Guides on Greenlaning Good Practice are available from relevant organisations, providing invaluable information on how to minimise impact and maximise enjoyment. By adhering to these guidelines, you not only protect Salisbury Plain but also contribute to the positive reputation of the greenlaning community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greenlaning on Salisbury Plain

Is off-road driving legal on Salisbury Plain?

Yes, off-road driving is permitted on designated Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs) and other unclassified roads on Salisbury Plain. This is subject to the Salisbury Plain Military Byelaws and is only allowed when these routes are not in use for military training and are deemed safe for public access.

What exactly are 'greenlanes'?

The term 'greenlanes' refers to ancient, often unmade, tracks, typically composed of grass, stone, or earth. Legally, they are Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs) or unclassified roads. They offer a unique off-road driving experience, often steeped in history as old droveways or early transport routes.

Why is Salisbury Plain considered an environmentally sensitive area?

More than 50% of the Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) is under ecological designation. This is due to its rich biodiversity and thriving wildlife habitats, which have largely remained undisturbed by modern intensive agriculture. This ecological significance necessitates careful management and responsible public use to protect its unique natural heritage.

What are the risks of driving off marked public rights of way on Salisbury Plain?

Diverting from marked public rights of way carries significant risks. You could enter active military training areas, potentially disrupting exercises and endangering yourself. There is also a serious risk of encountering unexploded ordnance (UXO). Additionally, driving off-route can cause irreparable damage to sensitive habitats, agricultural land, bird nesting sites, and even historical features of the byway itself. Such actions can also constitute a criminal offence.

What is 'voluntary restraint' in the context of Salisbury Plain greenlaning?

Voluntary restraint is an important initiative where greenlaners are requested to temporarily avoid using specific, particularly sensitive BOATs during wet winter months. This collaborative effort between the MOD, Wiltshire Council, the Green Lane Association (GLASS), and the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) allows these vulnerable routes to recover from erosion, ensuring their long-term sustainability and continued enjoyment for all.

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