State-of-the-art technology is being used to make an up-to-date map of the 560 miles of footpath network in the Bath and North East Somerset area.

Two surveyors have started to walk most of the public rights of way network using hand-held GPS equipment to record every stile, gate, bridge and path in the area.

The equipment means that for the first time the council will have an accurate record of public rights of way and will be able to plan improvements and maintenance with up-to-date knowledge.

The project will help the council to target improvements where they will be the most beneficial, co-ordinate improvements on routes and identify routes that can easily be upgraded to encourage people to walk or cycle in preference to using cars.

Katharine Evans is one of the surveyors who works on behalf of the council for Exegesis, who are experts in spatial data management, and is walking some of the paths.

She said: "So far we have walked about 75 miles of paths.

"The task of walking each and every mile of the network is a big challenge but it is the only way to get an on-the-ground view of paths and record what people experience on a path."

The GPS equipment means that both Ms Evans and her colleague can record what they find as they walk with the tap of a screen.

Councillor Charles Gerrish, cabinet member for customer services, said that the detailed survey will help to improve the service the council provides.

"It will help us plan our investment in footpaths even more effectively," he said.

"We are keen to promote walking to boost the health and wellbeing of people, so providing a well-maintained footpath network is very important."