Footpath Erosion
As sea levels rise, accelerating the process of coastal erosion in many areas of Britain, some of our most spectacular paths are under threat. So, too, are many pleasant riverside routes.
The danger is that the current legislative framework provides scant protection for riverside and coastal paths. Once eroded by a river or the sea a right of way is lost forever.
The Ramblers' Association is proposing to campaign for legislation which will require local authorities to monitor paths at risk, and to take remedial action either to protect paths or to provide alternative routes.
How you can help
If we are to stand any chance of persuading Government to introduce legislation to deal with this problem, it is vital that we have plenty of examples of 'at risk' paths right across the country. Our plan is to prepare a dossier of cases which will be submitted to Government in due course.
Please can you send any specific examples of coastline or riverside paths that have either already been lost, or are at serious risk of being lost, through coastal or riverside erosion to Martin Key at central office.
Please provide a description of the problem, including any history of reporting it to the local authority, a grid reference and, if possible, a photograph.