Decision

Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Harwich to Shotley Gate lengths HSG2, HSG3, HSG5 and HSG6

Updated 18 September 2025

Applies to England

Introduction

On 22 January 2020 Natural England submitted a compendium of coastal access reports relating to the stretch of coast from Harwich to Shotley Gate 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”). 

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

a. Harwich to Shotley Gate reports HSG2, HSG3, HSG5 and HSG6 – part of Natural England’s coastal access report compendium for Harwich to Shotley Gate submitted to the Secretary of State on 22 January 2020

b. 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 December 2020

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 an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now known as a National Landscape) 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 HSG2, HSG3, HSG5 and HSG6, subject to modifications.

In the respects specified in the objection 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.   

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. the reports on the objections given to them by the appointed person

c. 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 in December 2020

d. Summary of other representations, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State in December 2020

Natural England has also made available here:

e. Harwich to Shotley Gate - the compendium of coastal access reports

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

Objection reference: MCA/HSG2/0/1/HSG0630

The land in the Report to which the objection relates is route sections HSG-2-S001 to HSG-2-S004. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and agrees with the inspector’s conclusion that the proposed sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path are likely to cause negative impacts relating to loss of productive arable land, safety concerns near the railway, and adverse effects on farm operations. The Secretary of State acknowledges that the objector’s suggested alternative inland route would better mitigate these issues despite offering fewer coastal views. Consequently, the Secretary of State concludes that the proposals, as originally submitted, fail to strike a fair balance. However, the Secretary of State approves the alternative route proposed by the objector, subject to the installation of suitable signage, the creation of a new access point connecting an adjacent field path to Ray Lane to prevent unnecessary crossing of farmland and minor adjustments to the path alignment and waymarking to ensure safe and effective access.

Objection reference: MCA/HSG3/0/1/HSG0736

The land in the Report to which the objection relates is route section HSG-3-OA-002. The Secretary of State notes the objector raised concerns about the use of prime agricultural land for the Optional Alternative Route and the potential adverse impacts on farming operations. The Secretary of State acknowledges that Natural England has since agreed to modify the route to follow the objector’s preferred inland public footpath as the Optional Alternative Route, which better protects productive farmland while still providing suitable coastal access, including the provision of appropriate signage to clearly mark the route. Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with this modification in place.

Objection reference: MCA/HSG3/O/2/HSG0084

The land in the Report to which the objection relates concerns the route sections at Port of Mistley . The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and agrees with the inspector’s conclusion that the proposed sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path are unlikely to cause significant negative impacts concerning the issues raised around safety, public access, and operational activities at Mistley Quay. These issues are addressed by the route following established public paths along Mistley Quay, where the traffic is slower and there is more space for pedestrians, enhancing safety. Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MCA/HSG5/O/1/HSG0735

The land in the Report to which the objection relates is route section HSG-5-S012. The Secretary of State acknowledges the objector’s concerns about the ambiguity of the landward boundary and the preference for the existing footpath below the cliff. However, the Secretary of State notes that the lower route is unstable and subject to tides and erosion, making it unsuitable for long-term access. Instead, Option 3, the cliff-top route, offers a safer, more accessible alignment with better views and less impact on productive farmland. The Secretary of State also notes that the objector’s concerns will be mitigated by the creation of a grassed access strip along the edge of the field, the installation of clear waymarking, and the placement of advisory signage encouraging dog walkers to keep their dogs on leads to reduce the risk of crop contamination. Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals for this route section with these modifications in place.

Objection reference: MCA/HSG6/0/1/HSG0657

The land in the Report to which the objection relates concerns route section HSG‑6‑S029. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person regarding this objection and agrees with the inspector’s conclusion that the proposed sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path are unlikely to cause significant negative impacts in terms of productive farmland or the quality of views over the estuary. The Secretary of State also notes the objector’s preference for the existing public right of way, as it avoids taking new land areas for the coastal path. However, These concerns are addressed by the field‑edge alignment’s minimal land take and its clearer, more direct path.  Furthermore, the public right of way is not suitable as it runs very close to residents’ homes, passing through their gardens and curtilage, with walkers being able to see into private properties. Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

Objection reference: MCA/HSG6/0/2/HSG0740

The land in the Report to which the objection relates is route sections HSG-6-S024 to HSG-6-S037. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person regarding this objection and agrees with the inspector’s conclusion that the proposed sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path are unlikely to cause significant negative impacts in terms of disturbance to sensitive saltmarsh and mudflat bird habitats. The concerns set out in the objection are addressed by installing clear, targeted signage (including an interpretation board at Shotley Gate) to educate visitors to keep dogs under control and by relying on existing terrain features that deter access, alongside ongoing monitoring through trail condition checks, Site of Special Scientific Interest  assessments, and wetland bird surveys. Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with this modification in place.

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.

Representation number: MCA/HSG2/R/2/HSG0730

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], The Ramblers, Essex Area

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Ramblers’ endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback. 

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/6/HSG0740

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], RSPB

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  Representation Part A. HSG-2-S005 to HSG-2- S007; Representation Part B. HSG-2-S011 to HSG-2- S022

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  Part B of this representation has strong similarities to representations submitted by the RSPB for reports HSG3, HSG5 and HSG6, and to their objection to HSG6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the RSPB’s concerns regarding public safety near the level crossing and the potential disturbance to sensitive bird habitats due to limited access restrictions and signage. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that these concerns will be addressed through clear signage indicating that coastal access does not apply to the level crossing or the foreshore beyond, as well as signage near Copperas Wood to enforce dog exclusions and reduce disturbance to waterbirds. The Secretary of State also agrees that the proposed Section 25A exclusions, being the most restrictive form of access limitation, are appropriate and sufficient.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/4/HSG0247

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Copperas Wood Farm

Report map reference: HSG 2a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-2-S006 to HSG-2-S007

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the level crossing and the associated risks to public safety. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that these risks will be effectively managed through the installation of clear signage, in collaboration with Essex County Council and the RSPB, to clarify that coastal access rights do not extend to the railway crossing or the foreshore beyond.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/1/HSG0402

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Fields between East Grove and Strandlands, Wrabness

Report map reference: HSG 2c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-2-S015 to HSG-2-S017

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential for public confusion over the distinction between public rights of way and other paths on the proposed map. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that mapping relies on established Ordnance Survey data and updated public rights of way information from access authorities, and that addressing third-party mapping inaccuracies is outside the scope of this proposal. The representor should raise any mapping inaccuracies directly with Ordnance Survey.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/3/HSG0261

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted] and [redacted]

Name of site:    Strandlands, Wrabness

Report map reference: HSG 2c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-2-S015

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential increase in inappropriate use of two existing kissing gates on the route by cyclists and motorcyclists if they are removed, and the view that the gates do not restrict legitimate pedestrian access. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the gates are unacceptably restrictive, do not meet accessibility requirements, and should be removed entirely unless a clear need for stock control is identified.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/7/HSG0723

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

Name of site:    N/A

Report map reference: HSG 2a to 2c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  Whole length, with particular locations highlighted

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  Disabled Ramblers have also submitted generic and detailed comments on HSG 1, HSG 4, HSG 5 and HSG 6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Disabled Ramblers’ concerns regarding the accessibility of the trail for users of all-terrain mobility vehicles and the need to remove or adapt man-made structures that create unnecessary barriers. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that these concerns have been appropriately addressed, noting that the Coastal Access Scheme requires Natural England to make the trail accessible wherever reasonably possible. Existing kissing gates will be replaced with structures suitable for large mobility vehicles.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/5/HSG0738

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], the Woodland Trust

Name of site:    Copperas Wood

Report map reference: HSG 2a to 2b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  [redacted] specifies route sections HSG-2-S004 to HSG- 2-S006, but her comments seem to also relate to HSG- 2-S008 to HSG-2-S011

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Woodland Trust’s concerns regarding the protection of Copperas Wood as ancient semi-natural woodland and the need to minimise environmental impacts from new paths and trail management. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed trail alignment largely avoids the woodland, and where it does pass through, it follows an existing path to limit disturbance. A Nature Conservation Assessment has also concluded that no significant harm is expected from the proposed alignment.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG2/R/4/HSG0247

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Copperas Wood Farm

Report map reference: HSG 2a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-2-S006 to HSG-2-S007

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  None directly related

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns about the potential impacts of increased public access on the diverse land uses within Copperas Wood Farm, safety at the nearby railway crossing, and the cost of fencing non-accessible areas. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the landowner’s property lies south of the proposed trail and is separated by a railway line which is inaccessible under coastal access legislation, so the land is unlikely to be affected by increased access. Additionally, fencing off non-accessible areas is not a requirement and is likely unnecessary given this separation. Finally, a Nature Conservation Assessment has confirmed that the proposals are compatible with environmental protection duties, and any impacts are expected to be minimal and manageable without the need for additional exclusion measures.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG3/R/1/HSG0730

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], The Ramblers, Essex Area

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  HSG-3-S001 to HSG-3-S005 HSG-3-S018 to HSG-3-S024 HSG-3-S020 to HSG-3-S038

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes The Ramblers’ concerns regarding the inland diversion of the route at Stone Lane and the preference for a more coastal alignment near Nether Hall to avoid detours. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed inland route is necessary due to private land restrictions and safety considerations and provides scenic views of the estuary.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG3/R/3/HSG0740

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], RSPB

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  HSG-3-S016 to HSG-3-S019

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  This representation has strong similarities to representations submitted by the RSPB for reports HSG 2, HSG 5 and HSG 6, and to their objection to HSG 6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the RSPB’s concerns regarding potential disturbance to sensitive habitats and the adequacy of current access restrictions and signage to protect them. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that existing exclusion measures and restrictions, alongside limited public access due to the natural environment and signage at key locations, provide appropriate protection for wildlife. Ongoing monitoring will also take place to ensure conservation objectives are met.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG3/R/2/HSG0733

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Land to the north of The Pightle, Heath Rd, Mistley.

Report map reference: HSG 3d

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:         HSG-3-S030

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s positive endorsement of the proposed route for avoiding the double bend on Heath Road, along with concerns about potential disturbance from dogs in the adjacent horse field. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that, given the physical separation from the horse field by a water-filled ditch and fencing, along with clear signage, the risk of disturbance will be mitigated.

Representation number:       MCA/HSG5/R/2/HSG0655

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], Ramblers Association, Suffolk

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 4 and HSG 6

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Ramblers Association’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation number:       MCA/HSG5/R/3/HSG0732

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], Chair, Suffolk Local Access Forum

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All, but highlighted sections are: HSG-5-S007 - HSG-5-S014 (ref to roll-back) and HSG-5-S014 - HSG-5-S029 (ref to inland alignment).

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 6

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Suffolk Local Access Forum’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG5/R/8/HSG0740

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], RSPB

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  This representation has strong similarities to representations submitted by the RSPB for reports HSG 2, HSG 3 and HSG 6, and to their objection to HSG 6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the adequacy of access restrictions for nature conservation purposes. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the current exclusions under Section 25A sufficiently limit access to the most sensitive areas. Furthermore, the shoreline in question is largely inaccessible and unattractive to walkers, which limits the risk of disturbance, and ongoing statutory monitoring will remain in place to assess any conservation concerns.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/1/HSG0662

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], Suffolk Wildlife Trust

Name of site:    Inland alignment at Crowe Hall, Stutton House and Markwell’s Farm

Report map reference: HSG 5c, HSG 5d and HSG 5e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-5-S014 to HSG-5-S029

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/4/HSG0582

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], for Trustees of the Stutton Hall Estate Settlement

Name of site:    The Rough, Stutton Park

Report map reference: HSG 5b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-5-S010

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation :
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding responsibility for maintenance costs of the seawall, its preferred use, and the potential impact of alternative inland routes on sensitive habitats and farmland. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the seawall route remains the most direct and convenient option while it is viable, that maintenance responsibility lies with Suffolk County Council, and that should the seawall path become impassable due to erosion, a carefully considered inland alternative can be agreed through the roll-back process.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/5/HSG0725

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Brantham re-development site and land to SE of railway

Report map reference: HSG 4b HSG 5a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-4-S027 to HSG-4-S035 HSG-5-S001 to HSG-5-S002

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 4

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the limited coastal views of the route and disruption due to ongoing housing developments. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed inland route provides a safer, more accessible path for all users while protecting sensitive wildlife habitats, and that the alternative route would cause significant disturbance to protected areas and pose safety risks at a railway crossing.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/6/HSG0660

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site:    Brantham Hall Farm

Report map reference: HSG 5a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-5-S002

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation :
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the removal of the a stile and therefore the potential for increased use of the path by cyclists or motorcyclists. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the stile is an unnecessary barrier to access—particularly for disabled users—and should be removed to improve accessibility, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 and the principles of the Coastal Access Scheme.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/7/HSG0729

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted] (agent), on behalf of The Greenwich Hospital Estate

Name of site:  Royal Hospital School, Stutton

Report map reference: HSG 5e, HSG 6a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-5-S026 and HSG-6-S001

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 6

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns about the proximity of the proposed trail to the Royal Hospital School grounds and the request for signage to clarify access boundaries. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that such signage is unnecessary, as the school grounds are clearly separated from the proposed the trail by wide grazing meadows and dense hedging.

Representation ID: MCA/HSG5/R/9/HSG0723

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

Name of site:    N/A

Report map reference: HSG 5a to 5e (5a and 5e highlighted)

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  Whole length (sections HSG-5-S002 to HSG-5-S003, and HSG-5-S027 to HSG-5-S034 are highlighted)

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  Disabled Ramblers have also submitted generic and detailed comments on HSG 1, HSG 2, HSG 4 and HSG 6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Disabled Ramblers’ concerns regarding the need for improved accessibility for users of all-terrain mobility vehicles, including the request for ramps instead of steps in certain parts of the proposed route. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that while inclusive access is a priority, physical and practical constraints make ramp installation unfeasible. Signage will be added to alert users to a suitable alternative diversion.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/3/HSG0655

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], Ramblers Association, Suffolk

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG4 and HSG5

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Ramblers Association’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/4/HSG0732

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], Chair, Suffolk Local Access Forum

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All, but highlighted sections are: HSG-6-S001-HSG-6-S017 (ref to roll-back)

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 5

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Suffolk Local Access Forum’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/7/HSG0740

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted], RSPB

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  All

Other reports within the stretch to which this representation also relates:  This representation has strong similarities to representations submitted by the RSPB for reports HSG 2, HSG 3 and HSG 5, and to their objection to HSG 6.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the adequacy of access restrictions for nature conservation purposes and disturbance to sensitive wildlife habitats in the Stour estuary. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the current exclusions under Section 25A sufficiently limit access to the most sensitive areas. Furthermore, the shoreline in question is largely inaccessible and unattractive to walkers, which limits the risk of disturbance, and ongoing statutory monitoring will remain in place to assess any conservation concerns.

Representation number: MCA/HSG6/R/1/HSG0170, MCA/HSG6/R/2/HSG0462  

Organisation/person making representation:  [redacted], [redacted] and [redacted]

Name of site:    Rose Farm Cottages, Shotley

Report map reference: HSG 6e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-6-S029

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the impact of the proposed route on privacy. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the route achieves a reasonable compromise which minimises intrusion while maintaining coastal access.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/2/HSG0462

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted] and [redacted]

Name of site:    2 Rose Farm Cottages

Report map reference: HSG 6e and 6f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:         HSG-6-S029

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation’s concerns regarding inaccuracies in land ownership and property references in the proposals. The Secretary of State notes that Natural England has acknowledged these errors and has made the necessary corrections.

Representation number:     MCA/HSG6/R/5/HSG0729

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted] (agent), on behalf of The Greenwich Hospital Estate

Name of site:    Royal Hospital School, Stutton

Report map reference: HSG 5e and HSG 6a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:         HSG-5-S026 and HSG-6-S001

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  HSG 5

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns about the proximity of the proposed trail to the Royal Hospital School grounds and the request for signage to clarify access boundaries. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that such signage is unnecessary, as the school grounds are clearly separated from the proposed the trail by wide grazing meadows and dense hedging.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/6/HSG0729

Organisation/ person making representation: [redacted] (agent), on behalf of [redacted]

Name of site:    Nether Hall, Harkstead

Report map reference: HSG 6a and HSG 6b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  HSG-5-S014 to HSG-6-S018

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding potential disturbance to game birds caused by increased access and dogs, as well as the request for additional fencing and gates. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed seasonal dogs-on-lead restrictions and signage will mitigate these concerns. The installation of fences and gates is impractical due to coastal erosion risks and maintenance challenges.

Representation number:    MCA/HSG6/R/8/HSG0723

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

Name of site:    N/A

Report map reference: HSG 6a to 6f (6a and 6f highlighted)

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:         Whole length, with certain sections highlighted: HSG-6S0013 / HSG-6-S014, and section HSG-6-S038

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  Disabled Ramblers have also submitted generic and detailed comments on HSG 1, HSG 2, HSG 4 and HSG5.

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Disabled Ramblers’ concerns regarding the need for improved accessibility for users of all-terrain mobility vehicles, including requests for ramps instead of steps on certain sections and clearer signage to guide users away from hazardous cliff paths. The Secretary of State acknowledges that the possibility of installing a ramp between HSG-6-S013 and HSG-6-S014 was previously overlooked due to COVID-19 site access restrictions, but supports Natural England’s commitment to working with Suffolk County Council to explore this. The Secretary of State also supports the addition of clear signage to advise mobility vehicle users to avoid the cliff face section at Shotley Gate.