Preparations begin for new coastal path

The new national trail will give right of access around all of England’s open coast for the first time.

Natural England is working with Lincolnshire County Council on the proposals, and will be holding detailed meetings with relevant parties regarding the route between Sutton Bridge and Skegness Pier and Skegness Pier and Mablethorpe, to make sure it is the most appropriate for residents, landowners and visitors.

Once these sections of the path are completed, which is expected to happen in 2018, the county council will be responsible for the route, which will be granted National Trail status.

The remaining section within Lincolnshire, from Mablethorpe to the Humber Bridge, will be worked on subsequently, with a provisional opening date of 2019.

Executive member for economic development Coun Colin Davie said: “The coastal path will make it easier for people to enjoy recreation like walking, picnicking and bird-watching on our seafronts.

“This will undoubtedly bring new visitors to the area, which is good news our coastal towns, their local businesses and communities.”

For more information on the England Coast Path, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/england-coast-path-improving-public-access-to-the-coast