The LAF is made up of volunteers who have experience or an interest in countryside and access issues. There is a balanced mix between users and land-owners/managers, with a wide range of experience and interests. (Again, see the breakdown of members listed in the Annual Reports) Each member is appointed in their own right, not as a representative of any particular group or body so they cannot appoint a deputy to attend in their place should they be unable to attend a meeting.
At present, the Torfaen LAF meets every three months at the Civic Centre in Pontypool. The meetings are public and anyone may attend but only the LAF members can participate. Should a member of the public wish to raise a point at the LAF meeting, they can contact the secretary or the chairman and request they include their access issue on the agenda.
Every three years, interested members of the public are invited to apply to become a member of the LAF. The applications are assessed by the local authority and the successful members are appointed for a three year period. The authority also provides secretarial support to the LAF but the forum must set their own agendas with individual members actively encouraged to suggest agenda items and provide supporting papers where necessary.
Countryside Section Tel: 01633 648278