Natural England (NE) is still working to create a 2,800-mile coastal path all around the English Coast. NE has for some time been visiting all the land on the various stretches of the coast which are likely to be affected. They have been discussing the options in details with the people who own or manage the land and relevant local organisations which have an interest or concern regarding this proposal. Once checked and the input considered, NE will finalise and publish a report and send it to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural affairs. This is expected to happen in summer 2018. Once published it will be available on gov.uk and in the local press. There will be eight weeks to raise objections/comments which the Secretary of State will take into account before the final approval.
The local stretch NE is looking at presently is the 53km coast line from Eastbourne to Camber. At a public meeting it became clear that difficulties are presenting themself in Rye Harbour. The good news is that the first part of the South East section was opened earlier this year, 66 miles from Camber to Ramsgate. Altogether it will cover the country’s entire sea shore and will be one of the world’s longest walking routes. It is hoped that the path will be finished by 2020.
Photo: The Guardian