Natural England

Natural England has unveiled its proposals for improving access to the English coast. Subject to the approval of its Board, Natural England looks set to advise the Government to introduce legislation to create a new right of public access to England’s coastline along a continuous access corridor.

Natural England was asked by the Government to recommend how best to deliver its manifesto commitment to improve people’s access to the English coastline. Comprehensive rights do not currently exist, making access to the coastline difficult, or creating a stop-start effect, in many parts of the country.

Since it was created last October, Natural England has re-consulted stakeholders and analysed the options.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England said: “We are minded to advise the Government to provide Natural England with the powers to deliver a new right of access to the coast.

“My Board will be recommended to approve proposals to create clear and well managed public access along the entire 4000 km length of England’s coast. This solution would enable us to focus our resources where they would make the maximum difference. Where existing access works well, we won’t intervene.”

Natural England's Board will consider the proposals at its meeting on 21 February 2007.

See the full press release.