Rights of Way

Rights of way have been in existence since time immemorial.  They are created by people using the same route for a number of years without challenge.  Traditionally rights of way law has been formed in the courts so there is much more case law about them than statutory legislation.

There is a planning application for a housing development that will block a well-used path. Local people think that it is a right of way. What can be done?
There is a proposal for a windfarm development that will be close to a well-used right of way. What can be done?
There is a path close to my house which local people say is a right of way. Can I divert the route so as to protect my privacy?