Improving coastal access

ENPAA has submitted its comments to the Government in response to a public consultation that examined ways of improving access to the coast. This follows advice that Natural England gave to Ministers on the subject earlier in the year.

Promoting access is a key way of promoting opportunities for the public enjoyment and understanding of National Parks. And National Park Authorities have a good track record in undertaking projects to promote access by all. ENPAA’s response endorses the Government’s vision. This is of a coastal environment, which is sustainably managed, and where it is possible to walk along the length of the English coastline, in a wildlife and landscape corridor that offers opportunities for high quality experiences to enjoy and better understand the natural environment. We also believe that primary legislation will be needed if this vision is to be realised.

With such a complex, diverse and changing environment as the English coastline – providing sufficient resources to the task is vital. ENPAA is concerned that insufficient attention to date has been made of the resources that will be needed.

Defra Coastal Access Consultation - ENPAA response