NEW access rights have just come into force for two new stretches of the England Coast Path in the North of England. This will enable people to enjoy 36 kilometres of coastline between Allonby and Whitehaven, in Cumbria, and 55 kilometres of coastline between North Gare, in Hartlepool and South Bents in Sunderland in the North-East. Each region hosted an opening ceremony last week to officially open these first stretches.

Last summer, the Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), gave approval for paths and work has been taking place since.

For the first time walkers will be given new rights of access to typical coastal land including foreshore, beaches, dunes and cliffs; including areas where everyone can rest, relax and admire the view.

And, crucially, the path will now be able to “roll back” as the cliffs erode or slips - enabling a replacement route to be put in place quickly if necessary, and so solving long-standing difficulties with maintaining a continuous route along the coast. When it is complete, the England Coast Path will be a well way-marked National Trail around the whole English coast.

“We are delighted that this new path now connects our three local authorities along this marvellous coast,” said Councillor Pauline Charlton, chairwoman of Durham County Council. “Fifteen years ago we saw how a new path can reconnect communities to their coast and the real, tangible benefits that arise from a simple path and I look forward to working with our neighbours to ensure we reap the benefits of this opportunity.”

“The North-East has one of the finest coastlines in Britain, and the stretch between Hartlepool and Sunderland has evolved triumphantly from its industrial past to form part of the Durham Heritage Coast,” added Councillor Peter Jackson, chair of Hartlepool Council’s Neighbourhood Services. “It is an area rich in shallow bays and headlands with yellow magnesian limestone cliffs, and has dramatic views over great natural landscapes of historical and geological interest.”