Coastal access set to get the go-ahead

Laws to create coastal footpaths around England and Wales are set to be passed on Wednesday (11 November).

The House of Lords will vote on the Marine and Coastal Access Bill later to give more public rights of way and create marine conservation zones.

Farmers and landowners have slammed the proposals, claiming they are a waste of taxpayers’ money and will leave them at risk of legal action if walkers are injured on their land.

However the government said the 1400 mile coastal corridor, which will cost £50m to implement, would provide welcome access for all around the country.

The Country Land and Business Association, which has fought to secure landowners’ the right to appeal against access, said it would continue to fight for fair implementation of the bill once it was passed.

Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, CLA president, said: “We have always been against the Bill in principle, but at least the government has conceded in some areas.

“However, it still remains to be seen just how the implementation of the path will impact on coastal businesses.”