Countryside Access Officer

JOB PURPOSE:

The Countryside Officer is responsible for advising the Council on its powers and responsibilities under the Access to the Countryside (NI) Order 1983 and providing the means of implementing the same and also for the development and promotion of access and countryside recreation projects within the Borough as resources allow.

The post holder will be required to research public access/countryside recreation and countryside management issues, secure funding for projects, oversee their implementation and promote their use.

The post holder will be required to liaise with all relevant stakeholders including statutory and voluntary organizations and to represent the Council on working groups concerning countryside access/recreation.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Advise, in conjunction with Council Legal Services, the Council on the exercise of its powers and duties under the Access to the Countryside (NI) Order 1983 (and Recreation and Youth Services (NI) Order 1986 where appropriate) and on any relevant matters arising out of these Orders, subsequent legislation or any other relevant legislation or strategies pertinent to this area of work.

Undertake and compile documentary research and investigation into alleged public rights of way within the Borough, keeping maps and records of same. In liaison with Council Legal Services manage the legal administration of same such as the making and advertising of public path orders, undertaking negotiations with landowners and other stakeholders, and dealing with contentious issues as necessary. Liaise with relevant council departments as necessary to instigate site work, manage maintenance and deal with complaints.

Develop, manage and deliver access and countryside recreation/heritage projects, completing project briefs, business cases, economic appraisals, funding applications and grant claims as required to facilitate this work. In liaison with relevant council departments, manage/coordinate the development process including preparation of design and contract documentation, procurement and the provision of estimates of expenditure.

Liaise with community, sporting and other relevant partners in seeking to develop projects.

Liaise with relevant council departments to instigate site work and maintenance and respond to complaints.

Consult with the Department, other bodies or persons as may appear to be likely to be affected by, or have a particular interest or expertise, in relation to any proposals made.

Work with community groups to encourage and facilitate community action on countryside recreation/heritage matters and initiatives to increase physical activity.

Promote awareness and the recreational use of amenities provided in liaison with other council departments through the production of promotional and interpretative materials, the organization of events and by providing advice and information to users/user groups.

Liaise and work in partnership with a wide range of statutory and non-statututory bodies and agencies and with neighbouring Councils on countryside matters as appropriate.

Represent the Council on relevant committees and working groups as required and at official events and functions, assist councillors where necessary and respond to professional and public enquiries.

Act as the main point of contact for the Newry - Portadown Canal and liaise with the Inland Waterways Association Ireland.

Prepare and present committee reports as required, and prepare responses to relevant consultative documents.

Prepare and review policies and procedures relating to this area of work.

Complete property certificates in relation to questions regarding public rights of way and respond to relevant planning consultations.

Undertake any other relevant duties that may be required and are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post.

Qualifications and training

• Third level qualification in a relevant discipline e.g. Geography, Town Planning or Law.

Experience

• Two years’ experience of interpreting and implementing the provisions of Access to the Countryside legislation.

Key skills, knowledge and attributes

• Comprehensive knowledge of the countryside, together with the ability to deal with maps and to carry out research in geographical or related fields.

• Comprehensive knowledge of statutory orders dealing with the countryside

• Substantial experience in dealing with the public, individuals, landowners and statutory bodies

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Excellent organisational skills

• Strategic planning skills

• IT literate to include knowledge of Microsoft Office

• Financial and budget management skills

Driving

Hold a full current driving licence (valid in the UK) and have access to a form of transport or have access to a form of transport which will permit the applicant to carry out the duties of the post in full.

This relates only to any person who has a disability, which debars them from driving.

Working Arrangements/Flexibility

37 hours per week Monday–Friday. The post holder will be required to work outside normal working hours as required. Evening and weekend working may also be required. A flexible working hours scheme is in operation. Job share will be considered.