Placed this in general so hopefully it will get some attention, rather than GPS mapping forum.
OSM mapping is a free mapping resource that is editable and usable for free and some apps like Navigator 11 convert and use the info provided in a downloadable free map and navigates like a sat nav.
Currently being updated and edited worldwide it needs the support of all and it would be particularly useful if the maps are edited by the likes of us as we can add in our routes and correct the lanes incorrectly marked as roads of which there are many.
Its in our best interest really to do so as this is becoming increasingly popular with android phone users and I can foresee the scenario with people venturing down lanes marked as roads with unsuitable vehicles with obvious bad consequences.
The info is starting to appear corrected due to the publics efforts and the real plus side is that tracks are being marked up abroad, like France and Spain etc and hopefully correctly with local knowledge being a key factor.
There is nothing to download or install just go to http://www.openstreetmap.org/ register and get editing starting with you local area. Use the potlatch facility and take care that when saving its correct and particular care that roads and tracks link up with the "nodes" so the route is correctly linked. Any thing you know to be a lane, alter it if its shown as a road!
Once you get the hang of it, its easy! Pay attention to lanes marked up as roads and remove any shown as tracks that should be footpaths or bridleways, you can add extra information as to the status there as well.
Some might view this as giving away privileged information, personally I feel its more about making sure the right information is there and can only go towards strengthening our position keeping the lanes open for all both in the UK and beyond.
OSM is gaining momentum and will fast take over as a royality free resource from the like of google.
