The Ramblers will today (19 May 2009) celebrate the 60th anniversary of the law encouraging the creation of national trails in England. They will also call on the government to forge ahead with new legislation currently going through parliament which will create a continuous walking route along the English coast, using the National Park model.
In 1949 the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act was passed. It is a framework for the creation of national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales, as well as allowing access to national trails and other long distance paths. The legislation has been described as being the most exciting Act of the post-war Parliament and a recreational gift to Britain’s Second World War service men and women.
With millions expected to holiday at home this year because of the recession, the Ramblers is calling for the government to reaffirm its commitment to improving access to the coast, to ensure that everyone is able to walk beside the sea with confidence, knowing that their route is free from obstacles, diversions and dead ends.
Tom Franklin, Ramblers chief executive, says: “It’s hard to believe that a child building a sandcastle on a beach could be trespassing. We want to end that staggering situation, and the presumption that you are not allowed on the coast. Millions of us will flock to the coast this year and many will be met by diversions, dead ends or footpaths that have fallen into the sea. We want people to be able to enjoy the coast with confidence.”
He added: “In some areas with good access, like the South West, small businesses make good money from the tourism that walking brings. It’s time that all regions of England got to enjoy the same rewards that a coastal path can and will bring.”
The Marine and Coastal Access Bill, currently under discussion in the House of Lords, could see walkers giving an annual boost of up to £128 million pounds to coastal businesses when the new all-England coastal trail becomes a reality.
There are now 15 national trails in England and Wales, covering over 4000km of our most stunning and diverse landscapes.
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For further information please contact the Ramblers’ press office on 0207 339 8531/8532
