Natural England - Coastal Access is changing

Coastal Access is changing

Work has started on the England Coast Path - a new National Trail around all of England's open coast.

Latest News – 26 January 2012

The Secretary of State has approved the first stretch of the England Coast Path at Weymouth Bay.  This first stretch of the new England Coast Path will open in time for the Olympic and Paralympic sailing events which will take place there in July 2012. View details of the Secretary of State’s decisionexternal link.

Our activity on the first six stretches of coast: branscombe

Our coastal access programme

The England Coast Path is possible because of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. For the first time people will have the right of access around all of England’s open coast, including – where appropriate – ‘spreading room’ along the way where they can rest, relax or admire the view.

Local people, including owners and occupiers of coastal land, local access forums and key interest groups, will be fully consulted about the new access arrangements.

Improving access in this way to many miles of coastline for all to enjoy will help support local economies from increased visitor spending where additional visits are made.

The Marine and Coastal Act also means that for the first time, where existing paths erode into the sea, a replacement route can be quickly put in place – securing people’s right to walk around the coast forever.

The new rights are not yet in force and will be brought into effect at different times around the coast.

  • Distant view of Weymouth Bay © Marc Spencer

    A first step towards the England Coast Path

    (26 January 2012)  A 32km stretch of the Dorset coast around Weymouth Bay today became the first section of the new England Coast Path following approval for the new route from Environment Minister, Richard Benyon.

    More

Related articles