Natural England

Natural England’s Board has agreed new proposals for a 4,500 km continuous corridor of clear and well-managed public access along the entire length of England’s coast.

Natural England will advise Government to introduce legislation to create a new right of public access to England’s coastline. Natural England would then fill the gaps in existing access and make improvements where necessary.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England said: “The principle is clear: the public should have consistent and secure access around their coastline.

“Under our proposals, local communities would have a vital role to play in creating the coastal access corridor in their area. Careful discussion with land managers and local interests is central to making this new right work for everyone.”

Rather than compensation, Natural England is proposing extending the use of grant aid to land managers to produce environmental improvements around the coast, for example by rolling back intensive agriculture from the cliff top.

“We think this approach will be a multiple win – for the environment, for the land managers who will receive new income for taking alternative approaches, and for increased enjoyment of our coastal wildlife and landscapes by the public,” Sir Martin added.

In places the new access right would embrace larger areas, such as headlands, viewpoints and beaches, and the route around the coast will be clearly signed to provide clarity and safety.

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 along 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. Final advice will be put to Defra by the end of February 2007.

See the full press release.