Decision

Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Bawdsey to Aldeburgh, lengths BSA1, BSA2, BSA4 and BSA5

Updated 2 May 2025

Applies to England

Introduction

On 3 February 2021 Natural England submitted a compendium of coastal access reports relating to the stretch of land between Bawdsey and Aldeburgh to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs under section 51 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (“the 1949 Act”), pursuant to its duty under section 296(1) of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 (“the 2009 Act”).

This determination relates to 4 lengths from Bawdsey to Aldeburgh, BSA1, BSA2, BSA4 and BSA5.

In reaching a determination under section 52 of the 1949 Act the Secretary of State has considered:

a. Bawdsey to Aldeburgh, BSA1, BSA2, BSA4 and BSA5 – part of Natural England’s coastal access report compendium for Bawdsey to Aldeburgh submitted to the Secretary of State on 3 February 2021

b. 1. in accordance with paragraph 16(1)(a) of the Schedule, the objections which the appointed person determined to be an admissible objection

c. in accordance with paragraph 16(1)(b) of the Schedule, Natural England’s comments on the admissible objections which it sent to the Secretary of State

d. in accordance with paragraph 16(1)(c) of the Schedule, the reports given to the Secretary of State by the appointed person in respect of the objections which the appointed person determined to be an admissible objection

e. in accordance with paragraph 16(1)(d) of the Schedule, representations made by a person within paragraph 2(2)(b) to (f) of the Schedule and the summary of other representations made, and Natural England’s comments on those representations which it sent to the Secretary of State in February 2021.

f. Section 245 of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 imposes a duty upon the Secretary of State, when exercising any function which has any effect upon land in a an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to seek to the further the purposes of those areas. In this case the creation of coastal access in and around these Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty may have an effect upon them. However, in making this decision the Secretary of State has sought to further the purpose of the conservation and enhancement of these Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by satisfying itself that no harm will come to these areas as a result of the creation of the new coastal access

In this notice –

(a)  “objection” means an objection about the coastal access report which is made under paragraph 3 of Schedule 20 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009; and

(b) “representation” means a representation about the coastal access report which is made under paragraph 7 of Schedule 20 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.

Secretary of State’s approval of coastal access proposals

The Secretary of State has determined to approve those proposals for the route and associated coastal margin as set out in length reports BSA1, BSA2, BSA4 and BSA5.

With respect to the objections set out at Annex A to this notice, the Secretary of State determines that the proposals set out in the coastal access report do not fail to strike a “fair balance” as a result of the matters specified in the objections. The Secretary of State therefore approves the proposals set out in the coastal access report so far as they relate to those parts of the route (and associated coastal margin) to which the objection relates, subject to the agreed modifications for objection reference MSA/BSA4/O/9/BSA0465, MSA/BSA4/O/1/BSA0191 and  MSA/BSA5/O/6/BSA0578.   

Where proposals are approved in full, the additional conclusions and observations of the Secretary of State in relation to the representations are set out at Annex B to this notice.

The Secretary of State has made available at www.gov.uk:

a. a copy of this notice;

b. Representations made by a person within paragraph 2(2)(b) to (f) of the Schedule, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State on 15 January 2020; and

c. Summary of other representations, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State on 15 January 2020.

Natural England has also made available here:

d. Bawdsey and Aldeburgh: the coastal access report.

Annex A: Objections which did not fail to strike a “fair balance”

Objection reference: MSA/BSA1/O/4/BSA0240

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-1-S007 to BSA-1-S017. The objector is concerned that the proposed route along the cliff edge is unsafe and proposes a modified route along the field edge of their land. The Secretary of State believes the proposed route is more suitable, and moving the modified route further inland will not stop people accessing the clifftop as part of the route. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA2/O/1/BSA0156

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-2-S004 to BSA-2-S012. The objectors are concerned that the proposed alternative route will still result in wildlife disturbance due to inadequate length, position and time that it is in force. The Secretary of State confirms that all routes have been assessed on the impact of wildlife and the proposals will not have a significant effect on wildlife. An alternative route on the western side is not needed and would create a greater burden of landowners if implemented and be more inconvenient to users. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person and the Habitats regulation assessment in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA2/O/3/BSA0158

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-2-S004 to BSA-2-S012. The objectors are concerned that the proposed alternative route will still result in wildlife disturbance due to inadequate length, position and time that it is in force. The Secretary of State confirms that all routes have been assessed on the impact of wildlife and the proposals will not have a significant effect on wildlife. An alternative route on the western side is not needed and would create a greater burden of landowners if implemented and be more inconvenient to users. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA2/O/1/BSA0156

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-2-S028 to BSA-2-S029. The objector is concerned about wildlife disturbance caused by users with dogs. NE will ask for dogs to be kept on leads in certain stretches closer to the river to reduce disturbance and interpretation panels will also be installed to provide further information. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA4/O/1/BSA0191

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-4-S019. The objector is concerned that the proposed route is not aligned along an existing Right of Way that runs parallel to the path. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the agreed modification to realign the route along the Right of Way. Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusions and observations on representation reference MCA/BSA4/R/5/BSA0191 for further information.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA4/O/7/BSA0122

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S012. The objectors are concerned about increased risk of disturbance to wildlife from walkers and dogs. The Secretary of State agrees to the proposed restrictions and mitigations along the route in line with game bird management on the farms including erecting signage, restrictions to dogs for 6 months of the year and exclusions by direction on parts of the route The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person and the Habitats regulation assessment in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA4/O/9/BSA0465

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-4-S015-RD. The objectors are concerned about increased risk of disturbance to wildlife from walkers and dogs, increased farm biosecurity risk and a reduction in farm payments. The Secretary of State believes the proposed route strikes a fairer balance than any alternative proposed route and all adverse effects have been assessed by the Habitats Regulation Assessment The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the agreed mitigating measures proposed in report BSA 4: Ferry Lane (track) to Hazlewood Marshes car park.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA5/O/8/BSA0023

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-5-S028 to BSA-5-S031. The objector believes the the proposed route should be aligned along Saxmundham Road and use Brickfields as a modified route. The Secretary of State believes the continued use of the pavement along the proposed route is the best available option which provides walkers with a safe and reasonably direct journey The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MSA/BSA5/O/6/BSA0578

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route sections BSA-5-S028 to BSA-5-S031. The objector would like the area of restriction on the spreading room to be increased to incorporate an area of shingle that is beside the designated excluded access S24 area. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the agreed modification, to increase the area covered by the direction to exclude further access.

Annex B: Conclusions and observations on representations    

The Secretary of State has considered, in relation to the coastal access report, the following representations made under paragraph 7 of the Schedule.

Length report BSA1 - Bawdsey Quay car park to Butley Ferry crossing (west side)

Representation number: MCA/BSA1/R/3/BSA0419

Organisation/ person making representation: Ramblers Association

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S017

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: Reports BSA 2, 3, 4 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support for the route, particularly on sections BSA-1-S002 to BSA-1-S017. The Secretary of State recognises that Natural England (NE) considered several options for the route at BSA-1-S001 and have proposed a route that strikes a fair balance between the safety of users and public access. The Secretary of State notes that further improvement works are proposed along the route including standard highways ‘pedestrians in the carriageway’ warning signs, as suggested by a highways engineer.

Representation number: MCA/BSA1/R/4/BSA0425

Organisation/ person making representation: Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

Route section(s) specific to this representation: Maps 1e and 1f (covering RSPB Hollesley) BSA-1-S067 to BSA-1-S070 and Map 1g (covering RSPB Boyton) BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of the RSPB for the route that has been proposed and for the suggested exclusion of access rights to the saltmarsh and mudflat. The Secretary of State notes the request for additional restrictions; however, the Habitat Regulations Assessment and the Nature Conservation Assessment assessed the coastal access proposal on the feature of nature conservation interest but did not conclude additional restrictions were necessary here. NE will have acknowledged any relevant sensitive features present in the area and will consider the need for further restriction if this changes. NE does not have a role in deciding or influencing the rights of way network in relation to its work on delivering the King Charles III England Coast Path and is therefore unable to close the footpath mentioned in the representation. The Secretary of State commends NE for working with Suffolk County Council to ensure the path is as easy to use as it reasonably can be for disabled people and others with reduced mobility. With respect to the coast path, the route will benefit by being managed to National Trail quality standards, including regular monitoring of trail condition and associated signage or other new infrastructure. The Secretary of State recognises that should wider circumstances affecting the site change at any time in the future, coast path management can be adapted as necessary to avoid or reduce any disturbance.

Representation number: MCA/BSA Stretch/R/2/BSA0435

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk County Council

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: BSA Reports 2, 3, 4 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of Suffolk County Council in the use of estuary discretion for the proposals and the alignment in this Report at Bawdsey that improves the current access provision. The Secretary of State acknowledges that Suffolk County Council has concerns on financial uplift for sections of the trail that run adjacent to Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The Secretary of State notes that NE intend to carry out a further review of the funding formula for National Trails as the King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is completed so that NE can, with the Trail and KCIIIECP representatives who are joining this current review, assess whether any adjustments are required.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA1/R/7/BSA0735

Organisation/ person making representation: Bawdsey Parish Council

Name of site: The soft cliff southwards from Martello Tower W (East Lane) to where the path diverts to join the roadway at the north edge of Bawdsey Manor Estate land

Report map reference: Maps BSA 1a to 1b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S017 covering Bawdsey Quay to East Lane

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes that the Parish Council are concerned about current activities as ‘families clamber about on the cliffs’ while on the beach. The Secretary of State recognises that under either the proposed cliff top route or any other more inland route alignment, the beach and cliffs would fall within the seaward spreading room and coastal access rights would apply to these areas of land. One of the key principles of coastal access rights is that visitors should take primary responsibility for their own safety when visiting the coast and for the safety of any children or other people in their care and should be able to decide for themselves the level of personal risk they wish to take. As coastal access rights apply to this area the landowners are protected by the low level of public liability which is lower than that they currently owe to current users and trespassers. The Secretary of State also recognises that the Coastal Access Scheme will allow for rollback to ensure routes remain open, safe and available for public use if the original line is lost so an inland alignment is not necessary.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA Stretch/R/1/BSA0607

Organisation/ person making representation: British Horse Society – [redacted]

Report map reference: BSA Maps 1a to 1g

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: BSA Reports 2, 3, 4 and 5

 The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the desirability of creating routes for horse-riders. The Secretary of State recognises that on some sections of coast, existing rights will apply as well as or instead of coastal access rights, such as the right to ride a horse or bicycle on a bridleway or along a permissive route permitted by the landowner. However, NE’s core remit is to propose the creation of a walking route. NE can only secure higher rights where landowners are willing to offer them.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA1/R/6/BSA0712

Organisation/ person making representation: Disabled Ramblers - [redacted]

Report map reference: BSA Maps 1a to 1g

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  General comment also for Report 3

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks the Disabled Ramblers for their representation and suggestion to increase the width of the route to 1.1m to improve accessibility. The Secretary of State commends Natural England for working with Suffolk County council to ensure the path is legally compliant and accessible to all, including those with reduced mobility. Natural England acknowledges its duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, and also the extra responsibilities conferred by the Public Sector Equality Duty, under the former. The Secretary of State notes that NE are unable to propose an alternative route solely for the use of those with reduced mobility. There is however already a maintained accessible route that gives access up the slope which will continue to be available to facilitate access to the path.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA1/R/1/BSA0450

Organisation/ person making representation: Hollesley Parish Council

Name of site:    Saltmarsh land

Report map reference: BSA Maps 1a to 1g

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: Parish Council covers route sections BSA-1-S058 to BSA-1-S072

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of Hollesley Parish Council for the route and can confirm that no fencing will be erected in connection with the saltmarsh exclusion. The Secretary of State acknowledges that, whilst every effort has been made to draw an accurate boundary for exclusions, coastal processes may change the characteristics of the land. Exclusions on saltmarsh and flat will be indicated by using a roundel symbol installed at suitable intervals along the trail and information on exclusions will be added to information boards. The exclusions will not limit existing use of the saltmarsh but are intended to avoid any new public rights being created over the area.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA1/R/5/BSA0057

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk Wildlife Trust

Name of site:    RSPB reserves at Hollesley and Boyton

Report map reference: BSA Maps 1e, 1f and 1g

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: Maps 1e and 1f (covering RSPB Hollesley) BSA-1-S067 to BSA-1-S070 and Map 1g (covering RSPB Boyton) BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Suffolk Wildlife Trust has submitted a representation in support of the RSPB’s representation above. Please refer to the Secretary of State’s comments in relation to that representation.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that NE will discuss appropriate levels of signage with SWT and if wider circumstances affecting the site change at any time in the future, Coast Path management can be adapted as necessary to avoid or reduce any possible negative impacts on sensitive sites. A key feature of ongoing National Trail management is to work closely with relevant landowners and managers to identify and resolve any issues that might arise at an early stage.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/4/BSA0731

Organisation/ person making representation: Water Management Alliance – [redacted]

Name of site:    BSA 1-5

Report map reference: BSA Maps 1a to 1g

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-1-S001 to BSA-1-S073

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA reports 2, 3, 4 and 5 (with some report-specific comments)

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State appreciates the Internal Drainage Board’s (IDB) engagement in the development of our proposals and the reminder of the responsibilities associated with the IDB’s work. NE will pass these comments on to Suffolk County Council to consider and obtain any necessary permissions as part of their works to establish the trail.

Length Report BSA2 - Butley Ferry crossing (west side) to Orford Quay

Representation number: MCA/BSA2/R/1/BSA0419

Organisation/ person making representation: Ramblers Association

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA-2-S002 to BSA-2-S005 and BSA-2- S028

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of The Ramblers for the proposed routes around the Butley River.

Representation number: MCA/BSA2/R/3/BSA0425

Organisation/ person making representation: RSPB

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA 2 Butley Ferry to Orford Quay, Maps 2e, 2j, 2k, 2l

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of the RSPB for the alternative routes on the Butley River and can confirm that excluded areas will be clearly marked. NE is willing to discuss signage location with the RSPB. The alternative route, as well as the main route will benefit by being managed to National Trail quality standards, including regular monitoring of trail condition and associated signage or other new infrastructure. Should wider circumstances affecting the site change at any time in the future, such as establishment works, Coast Path management can be adapted as necessary to avoid or reduce any possible negative impacts on sensitive sites. If needed NE would consider a change to the route. The Secretary of State acknowledges that NE is not proposing to put bespoke monitoring in place and informal management techniques such as waymarks are effective ways to steer visitors to use a particular route. The Secretary of State further recognises that NE will not provide additional restrictions and exclusions as suggested, as the restrictions proposed are often more restrictive in terms of the times of year they apply to and the need for them is less vulnerable to change over time. Should vulnerable species be present in these areas in future then NE would consider the need for a further restriction at that time.

Representation number: MCA/BSA Stretch/R/2/BSA0435

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk County Council

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA-2-S001 to BSA-2-S045; BSA-2-A001 to BSA-2-A015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: BSA reports 1, 3, 4 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of Suffolk County Council in the use of estuary discretion for the proposals and the alignment around the Butley that improves the current Right of Way provision.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA Stretch/R/1/BSA0607

Organisation/ person making representation: British Horse Society – [redacted]

Name of site:    Whole length

Report map reference: BSA Maps 2a to 2l

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-2-S001 to BSA-2-S045; BSA-2-A001 to A015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA reports 1, 3, 4 and 5

Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation on representation reference MCA/BSA Stretch/R/1/BSA0607 in length BSA1.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA1/R/5/BSA0057

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk Wildlife Trust

Name of site:    Butley River

Report map reference: Maps 2e, 2j, 2k, 2l

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-2-S001 to BSA-2-S045; BSA-2-A001 to BSA-2-A015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust (SWT) for the alternative routes on the Butley River and can confirm that excluded areas will be clearly marked and that NE is willing to discuss signage location with SWT. The alternative route, as well as the main route will benefit by being managed to National Trail quality standards, that include regular monitoring of trail condition and associated signage or other new infrastructure. Should wider circumstances affecting the site change at any time in the future, such as establishment works, coast path management can be adapted as necessary to avoid or reduce any possible negative impacts on sensitive sites. If needed NE would consider a change to the route. The Secretary of State acknowledges that NE is not proposing to put bespoke monitoring in place and informal management techniques such as waymarks are effective ways to steer visitors to use a particular route. The Secretary of State welcomes the involvement of the Suffolk Disturbance Recreational Avoidance Mitigation Strategy (RAMS) and Suffolk and Essex Coast and Heaths National Landscape  in helping people understand the special character of the area.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA2/R/16/BSA0741

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:  Butley River

Report map reference: BSA Maps 2a to 2l

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-2-S001 to BSA-2-S039; BSA-2-A001 to BSA-2-A015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes [redacted] support for the route proposals.

Representation ID: MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/4/BSA0731

Organisation/ person making representation: Water Management Alliance – [redacted]

Name of site: Whole length

Report map reference: BSA Maps 2a to 2l

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-2-S001 to BSA-2-S045; BSA-2-A001 to BSA-2- A015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA Reports 1, 3, 4 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State appreciates the Internal Drainage Board’s (IDB) engagement in the development of our proposals and the reminder of the responsibilities associated with the IDB’s work. We will pass these comments on to Suffolk County Council to consider and obtain any necessary permissions as part of their works to establish the trail. The Secretary of State thanks the IDB for their work in maximising the environmental benefits from the drainage system. Through the Habitats Regulations Assessment for the international sites and the Nature Conservation Assessment documents developed with the support of wildlife specialists and enthusiasts the proposed route has balanced Natural England’s public commitments to wildlife and public access.

Length report BSA4 - Ferry Lane (track) to Hazlewood Marshes car park

Representation number: MCA/BSA4/R/11/BSA0419

Organisation/ person making representation: Ramblers Association

Route section(s) specific to this representation: BSA-4-S004 to BSA-4-S015; BSA-4-S060 to BSA-4-S068

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the Ramblers Association’s support for most of the proposed route and welcomes the understanding of the Ramblers Association about the reasons bank-top access could not be proposed. The representation references that the restrictions do not apply to public rights of way which is correct. The Secretary of State observes that there are no rights of way in this area and an alternative route or route re-alignment is not required with the current restrictions and exclusions already proposed as the current route strikes a fair balance between public access rights and management of disturbance on sensitive areas.

Representation number:  MCA/BSA4/R/20/BSA0425

Organisation/ person making representation: RSPB

 Route section(s) specific to this representation: Maps BSA 4a-h; BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S088

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation to representation reference MCA/BSA4/R/20/BSA0425 in sections BSA2.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA Stretch/R/28/BSA0435

Organisation/ person making representation:  Suffolk County Council

Name of site:    Whole report

Report map reference:  BSA Maps 4a to 4h

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S088

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation on representation reference MCA/BSA Stretch/R/28/BSA0435 in section BSA1.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA Stretch/R/8/BSA0607

Organisation/ person making representation: British Horse Society – [redacted]

Name of site:    Entire report

Report map reference:  BSA Maps 4a to 4h

 Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S088

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation on representation reference MCA/BSA Stretch/R/8/BSA0607 in section BSA1.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA4/R/24/BSA0057

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk Wildlife Trust (1st Representation)

Name of site:  Stanny House, Iken

Report map reference: Maps BSA 4a  and BSA 4b 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S012

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes Suffolk Wildlife Trust (SWT)’s concern about the potential disturbance to wildlife present in the area; Natural England assessed the potential impact on these species as part of the published Habitats Regulations Assessment and concluded there was no significant impact. The Secretary of State recognises that access restrictions on all areas of the Marsh (including the bank) seaward of the route and also for saltmarsh are proposed alongside future management changes such as screening and re-positioning habitat scrapes. The Secretary of State acknowledges that disturbance is unlikely to significantly increase on the proposed route as it is aligned along an existing right of way. The proposed route has a longer length that is closer to the sea which is a better fit with the statutory criteria and reduces the amount of seaward coastal margin than the suggested modified route at Stanny House Farm.

The Secretary of State notes there is currently no right of access to the bank and no new right of access will be created by the King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) because the area will be subject to an access exclusion for nature conservation reasons. The landowners can continue to prevent access to the marshlands and bank by locked gates or other suitable means. Information boards that have been proposed in the Habitat Regulations Assessment will explain the importance of the estuary and adjacent habitats, such as wet grassland, and seek to gain compliance with the restrictions on areas without access by explaining why the margin is restricted. The route will benefit by being managed to National Trail quality standards that include regular monitoring of trail condition and associated signage or other new infrastructure. Should wider circumstances affecting the site change at any time in the future, Coast Path management can be adapted as necessary to avoid or reduce any possible negative impacts on sensitive sites. Should new evidence be made available of the impact of the KCIIIECP then new restrictions or ultimately a new alignment could be considered.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA4/R/25/BSA0057

Organisation/ person making representation:  Suffolk Wildlife Trust (2nd Representation)

Name of site:  Iken Cliffs

Report map reference: Maps BSA 4d and 4e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-4-S027, BSA-4-S029, BSA-4-S037

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation for representation reference  MCA/BSA4/R/25/BSA0057 in section BSA2.

Representation ID:   MCA/BSA4/R/5/BSA0191

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:  Iken Cliffs

Report map reference: Map BSA 4d

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: BSA-4-S019

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State is grateful for [redacted] working closely with NE during the alignment process and agrees to approve the following modified proposals to align the KCIIIECP on a public footpath that is seaward of the route offered by [redacted]. The published mapping shows there are some places along Iken Cliffs where the currently walked route is slightly different to the mapped line of the public footpath and so for those sections the alignment is shown as ‘Other existing walked route’ though users would not realise they are off the line of the footpath. The Secretary of State suggests that dogs should be on a lead and this message has already been identified in the Habitat Regulations Assessment as being a point in the proposed information boards to promote positive visitor behaviours requesting that dogs are not permitted to enter the water or to chase birds interest. Brash will be used to prevent further disturbance on birds.

Modified proposals for Iken Cliffs resulting from objection on Report BSA 4: Ferry Lane (track) to Hazlewood Marshes car park

Maps	Route section numbers	Current status of route sections	Roll-back proposed	Landward margin contains coastal land type?	Proposal to specify landward boundary of margin	Reason for landward boundary proposal
BSA 4d	BSA-4-S019a	Public footpath	Yes	No	Fence line	Clarity and cohesion
BSA 4d	BSA-4-S019b	Other existing walked route	Yes	No	Fence line	Clarity and cohesion
BSA 4d	BSA-4-S019c	Public footpath	Yes	No	Fence line	Clarity and cohesion

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA4/R/7/BSA0543

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Entire report

Report map reference:  Maps BSA 4a to 4h

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  Ferry Lane to Hazlewood car park - BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S088; Stanny to Church Farm Corner (The Anchorage) - BSA-4-S015; Blackheath - BSA-4-S060 to S080

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for their representation and recognises that the route proposed is the most appropriate route, following the key KCIIIECP criteria of the Coastal Access Scheme and strikes a fair balance. The route has also been assessed by a highways engineer who had no concerns about the safety of the proposed route. If there is a large increase in heavy traffic, NE can consider whether mitigation measures are necessary. The Secretary of State acknowledges that even where public rights of way have been used, the access has been improved through the enhancements to National Trail standard, the creating of spreading room to the seaward side and the ability for rollback of the trail so that a route will always stay open, unlike a public right of way. The Secretary of State would like to refer [redacted] to report section 4.2.14 in Report BSA 4: Ferry Lane (track) to Hazlewood Marshes car park that states the reasons for the various restrictions and exclusions in the area to prevent disturbance on birds.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA4/R/15/BSA0741

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:    High Street to Iken

Report map reference: Maps BSA 4b and 4c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:         BSA-4-S004 to BSA-4-S015

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State recognises that the proposed route shows the best alignment strikes a fair balance between public interest and conservation of wildlife. The Secretary of State notes that because of the Habitat Regulation Assessment, a S26(3)(a) nature conservation restriction has been proposed to prevent disturbance by walkers (and dogs) of breeding and passage birds by movement against the skyline. While boats can occasionally cause disturbance to birds, it is generally less pronounced than disturbance caused by walkers, particularly if accompanied by dogs off the lead.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/3/BSA0731

Organisation/ person making representation: Water Management Alliance – [redacted]

Name of site:    Whole stretch

Report map reference:  BSA Maps 4a to 4h

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-4-S001 to BSA-4-S088

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 5

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation for representation reference MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/3/BSA0731 in section BSA2.

Length Report BSA5 - Hazlewood Marshes car park to Aldeburgh

Representation number:  MCA/BSA1/R/12/BSA0419

Organisation/ person making representation: Ramblers Association

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  BSA-5-S013 to BSA-5-S023

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks the Ramblers Association for its help in developing the King Charles III England Coast Path between Bawdsey and Aldeburgh and notes that it has expressed concern about the proposed route running along Saxmundham Road rather than using a path through a housing development called ‘Brickfields’. Please refer to the Secretary of State’s comments about each point in the ‘Summary of any similar or identical points’ section below.

The Secretary of State also recognises there is no new evidence that would prompt NE to propose an amendment to the route. The Secretary of State acknowledges the NE have proposed a route which follows the approved Coastal Access Scheme by enhancing enjoyment of the coastal environment for the public whilst balancing against landowner needs.

Representation number: MCA/BSA Stretch/R/28/BSA0435

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk County Council (Rep 1)

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  BSA-5-S001 to BSA-2-S038

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 4

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation on representation reference MCA/BSA Stretch/R/28/BSA0435 on section BSA1.

Representation number:  MCA/BSA5/R/27/BSA0435

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk County Council (Rep 2)

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  BSA-5-S013 to BSA-5-S023

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes that NE considered the Brickfields path but concluded not to propose it because of the increase in levels of use from a locally known route to a National Trail and the resulting impact on privacy for the house holders at Brickfields. The issues raised here are discussed further in Section 4 below.

Representations containing similar or identical points

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA5/R/6/BSA0740 [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/32/BSA0743 [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/34/BSA0744  [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/31/BSA0670 [REDACTED] and [REDACTED]  (Councillors at time of submitting representation but now resigned); MCA/BSA5/R/21/BSA0742 [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/4/BSA0739 [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/14/BSA0417 [redacted] and [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/13/BSA0679 [redacted]

Name of site:  Brickfields, off Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh

Report map reference:  Maps 5a and 5b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSB-5-S013 to HSB-5-S024

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State recognises that NE investigated a significant number of options for the route alignment in this area. NE has been guided by the principles laid out within the King Charles III England Coast Path Approved Scheme to achieve a fair balance for the interests of the users and the landowners. The Secretary of State acknowledges that aligning the trail through the Brickfields Estate would not strike a fair balance as it would have a significant impact on upon the privacy of its residents and it would not be possible to mitigate this or use the access road. The route would be close to and on eye-level with property balconies and would look down into all parts of the gardens.

The Secretary of State recognises that the proposed route, in crossing the coastal grazing marshes (BSA-5-S020 to S023) is a fairly unique experience for the King Charles III England Coast Path around the eastern area of England to be within a classic coastal landscape rather than just offering views over it. It is also a route that provides safe accessibility to the King Charles III England Coast path, with a lot of the route using existing public rights of way and already heavily used by pedestrians. NE can confirm it does not have any role in the management or regulation of the current route at Brickfields and it will remain open unless East Suffolk Council decides otherwise.  

Representations containing similar or identical points

Representation ID: MCA/BSA5/R/21/BSA0742  [redacted]; MCA/BSA5/R/13/BSA0679 [redacted]

Name of site:  Aldeburgh Golf Club to Brickfields, off Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh

Report map reference:   Maps 5a and 5b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSB-5-S001, HSB-5-S008 to HSB-5-S024

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  N/A

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for their representation. The Secretary of State recognises that the alignment follows the route of the existing Suffolk Coast Path, in part being a public footpath. It is on wide grass verges or pavements and has been assessed as being suitable by a Highways Engineer from Suffolk County Council. The Secretary of State highlights that the suggested alignment will be on excepted land and excluded saltmarsh land which will not prevent or affect any local use by right, formal agreement with the landowner or informal permission or traditional toleration however it will not be used as the approved route to provide new public access. [redacted]’s suggested route through the Brickfields development has been considered above.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA Stretch/R/8/BSA0607

Organisation/ person making representation: British Horse Society – [redacted]

Name of site: Whole length

Report map reference: BSA Maps 5a to 5c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-5-S001 to BSA-5-S038

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 4

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation for representation reference MCA/BSA Stretch/R/8/BSA0607 in section BSA1.

Representation ID:  MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/3/BSA0731

Organisation/ person making representation: Water Management Alliance – [redacted]

Name of site:    Whole length

Report map reference:  BSA Maps 5a to 5c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  BSA-5-S001 to BSA-5-S038

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  BSA Reports 1, 2, 3 and 4

The Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please refer to the Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation for representation reference MCA/BSA Whole Stretch/R/3/BSA0731 in sections BSA2.