Decision

Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Highcliffe to Calshot lengths 2 and 5

Updated 21 January 2026

Applies to England

Introduction

On 4 March 2018, Natural England submitted a compendium of coastal access reports relating to the stretch of coast from Highcliffe to Calshot 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. Highcliffe to Calshot reports HCS2 and 5 – part of Natural England’s coastal access report compendium for the Highcliffe to Calshot submitted to the Secretary of State on 4 March 2018

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 HCS2 and HCS5 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 https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/england-coast-path-highcliffe-to-calshot:

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 June 2022

d. summary of other representations, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State in June 2022

Natural England has also made available here:

e. Highcliffe to Calshot - the compendium of coastal access reports.

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

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\72\HCS0033

The land in the report to which the objection relates are route sections HCS-2-SO36 and HCS-2-SO41.

The Secretary of State notes the objectors’ concerns about the establishment of coastal margin at the boatyard and quay area, and their view that parts of this land should be treated as excepted without the need for exclusion directions, together with their implied concerns about the way the coastal margin is shown on Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and their suggestion for a break in the trail.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that Natural England has since agreed to remove the exclusion over the boatyard, and notes that OS mapping has operated without practical difficulty since 2014.

The Secretary of State further notes that the statutory duty requires a continuous coastal path, and no case has been made for a break in the trail.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with the modification of removing the exclusion direction over the boatyard.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\51\HCS1812

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, and the adequacy of conservation exclusions.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access; and that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts.

The Secretary of State further notes that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast. However, the Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s recommendation to introduce a year-round exclusion at Jugglers Moor to manage water buffalo grazing and associated safety risks, and to exclude a strip of foreshore along the seaward boundary of Cadland House Registered Park and Garden from public access.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with these modifications in place.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\49\HCS0791

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the depiction of coastal margin on Ordnance Survey maps, the potential for encroachment onto private and sensitive land, and public safety on unstable cliff tops.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access, that excepted land such as houses, gardens, and arable fields is not subject to access rights, and that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts.

The Secretary of State also notes that exclusions have been applied where necessary for environmentally sensitive areas, informal management measures and signage can help protect private land, and that visitors are responsible for their own safety on natural hazards such as unstable cliffs.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\65\HCS1821

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, the adequacy of conservation exclusions and the use of a more seaward route.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access, that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts, and that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast.

The Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector that the objectors’ suggested alternative or seaward routes are not legally or practically viable.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\26\HCS1796

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the depiction of coastal margin on Ordnance Survey maps, potential parking pressures along narrow lanes such as Stanswood Road and near Stone Drive, and the representation of her house on the maps.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access, that the maps are intended to show the overall extent of coastal margin in accordance with the Coastal Access Scheme, and that houses and gardens are excepted land where no access rights apply. Parking problems are not expected, as Stanswood Road is unsuitable for parking, and any issues can be managed by local highways authorities and landowners.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\32\HCS1630

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, the adequacy of conservation exclusions and the use of a more seaward route.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access, that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts, and that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast.

The Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector that the objectors’ suggested alternative or seaward routes are not legally or practically viable.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\40\HCS0560

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, the adequacy of conservation exclusions, the use of a more seaward route, and the depiction of excepted land within Registered Parks and Gardens.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access, that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts, and that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast.

The Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector that the objectors’ suggested alternative or seaward routes are not legally or practically viable. However, the Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s recommendation to exclude a strip of foreshore along the seaward boundary of Cadland House Registered Park and Garden from public access.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\55\HCS1814

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, the adequacy of conservation exclusions, the use of a more seaward route, and potential pressures from increased public access, including trespass and antisocial behaviour.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access; and that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts.

The Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s conclusion that the objectors’ suggested alternative or seaward routes are not legally or practically viable. The Secretary of State further notes that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast, and that anticipated public use is expected to be responsible, with existing safeguards sufficient to manage risks of trespass or disturbance.

However, the Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s recommendation to introduce a year-round exclusion at Jugglers Moor to manage water buffalo grazing and associated safety risks, and to exclude a strip of foreshore along the seaward boundary of Cadland House Registered Park and Garden from public access.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with these modifications in place.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\50\HCS1811

The land in the report to which the objection relates is route section HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes that the objector raised concerns regarding the extent of coastal margin, the depiction of access on Ordnance Survey maps, impacts on private land, the adequacy of conservation exclusions and the use of a more seaward route.

The Secretary of State acknowledges that under the Coastal Access Scheme, coastal margin automatically includes all land seaward of the trail, that the magenta shading on OS maps indicates coastal margin status rather than guaranteed public access; and that the Habitat Regulations Assessment shows no significant negative impacts.

The Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s conclusion that the objectors’ suggested alternative or seaward routes are not legally or practically viable.

The Secretary of State further notes that the proposed measures, including waymarking, signage, and statutory exclusions, appropriately protect sensitive areas while allowing public enjoyment of the coast. However, the Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s recommendation to introduce a year-round exclusion at Jugglers Moor to manage water buffalo grazing and associated safety risks, and to exclude a strip of foreshore along the seaward boundary of Cadland House Registered Park and Garden from public access.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with these modifications in place.

Objection Reference: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\O\57\HCS1750

The land in the report to which the objection relates are route sections HCS-5-S008 and HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027.

The Secretary of State notes the objector raised concerns regarding public access through fields used for stallion breeding and grazing young colts. These concerns will be mitigated through the use of stock fencing, the alignment of the trail to follow existing enclosures where possible, and requirements for dogs to be kept on leads near livestock.

Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section, subject to the wider modifications proposed on this stretch.

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\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\85\HCS1610

Organisation or person making representation: New Forest Access Forum

Report chapter: Highcliffe to Calshot Overview, maps E, F and K

Route sections: HCS-5-S022 to S037

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest Access Forum’s concerns regarding the need for extended exclusions on salt marshes and flats, and for permanent year-round exclusion at Park Farm on grounds of public safety and farming practices. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that salt marsh and mud flat access is already appropriately restricted under Section 25A. The Secretary of State also notes that Natural England has proposed seasonal exclusions under Section 24 (land management) and Section 25(1)(b) (public safety), which, when taken together with the existing seasonal exclusion for nature conservation, will result in year-round exclusion for Park Farm.

Chapter 2

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\106\HCS1611

Organisation or person making representation: The New Forest National Park Authority [redacted] 

Report chapter: Chapter 2, maps 2a to map 2e

Route sections: HCS-2-S001 to S051

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest National Park Authority’s clarification that its representations relate only to those parts of the route within the National Park, and that the absence of comment on proposals outside the National Park should not be taken as support.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\86\HCS1610

Organisation or person making representation: New Forest Access Forum [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 2, Map 2e

Route sections: HCS-2-S043 Gosport Road, HCS 2 S051 RD Lymington Bridge

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest Access Forum’s concerns regarding the safety of walkers, particularly at Gosport Road and Lymington Bridge, where they suggest alternative alignments or improved pedestrian crossings. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed alignment along Gosport Street and across Lymington Bridge have been subject to a Road Safety Audit and represents the safest viable option at present.

Chapter 5

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\42\HCS1612

Organisation or person making representation: The Ramblers [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 5, maps 5d, 5e, 5f.

Route sections: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S029

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Ramblers’ concerns regarding the use of narrow sections of Stanswood Road without pavements, the potential for increased traffic from the Fawley Power Station redevelopment, and their preference for a more seaward alignment. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that these road sections have been assessed as safe within the County Council’s safety audit and a more seaward route is not feasible due to environmental sensitivities, land management issues and safety constraints, and future traffic impacts could be addressed through a variation if necessary.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\45\HCS1612

Organisation or person making representation: The Ramblers [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 4, map 4h and Chapter 5, map 5a

Route sections: HCS-4-S036 and HCS-5-S001 to S003RD

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Ramblers’ concerns regarding the lack of coastal walking and poor sea views along sections HCS-4-S036 to 5-S003RD, and their proposal for a more seaward alignment via Lower Exbury House. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that environmental sensitivities, privacy considerations, the status of excepted land, and the presence of unsuitable saltmarsh mean that a more seaward alignment is not feasible.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\89\HCS1610

Organisation or person making representation: New Forest Access Forum [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 5, maps 5a,d, f

Route sections:

• Map 5a: HCS-5-S001, HCS-5-S002, HCS-5-S003, HCS-5-S004-S006
• Map 5d: HCS-5-S018, HCS-5-S019
• Map 5f: HCS-5-S021, HCS-5-S030, HCS-5-S034-S037

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest Access Forum’s concerns regarding the safety of walkers on road sections, the risk of confusion arising from the use of magenta wash on Ordnance Survey maps, and potential issues with flooding and accessibility near Calshot. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed alignment has been subject to a highways safety audit and deemed safe, appropriate diversions are already in place to mitigate flooding issues and that the magenta wash is the best way to depict the coastal margin, combined with site-specific guidance on the ground to clarify access rights.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\118\HCS1611

Organisation or person making representation: The New Forest National Park Authority [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 5, map 5a

Route sections: HCS-5-S003, HCS-5-S005-S007

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest National Park Authority’s concerns regarding the safety and suitability of the on-road section HCS-5-S003, particularly the lack of verges, narrow carriageway, and potential risks for pedestrians, including those with reduced mobility. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that, based on the highways authority’s safety assessment and site inspections, Inchmery Lane provides a safe and appropriate alignment for the KCIIIECP where no viable off-road alternative exists.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\119\HCS1611

Organisation or person making representation: The New Forest National Park Authority [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 5, map 5b

Route sections: HCS-5-S008 to S016

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the New Forest National Park Authority’s endorsement of the proposed route and thanks them for their positive feedback.

Representation number: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\120\HCS1611

Organisation or person making representation: The New Forest National Park Authority [redacted]

Report chapter: Chapter 5, maps 5d and 5e

Route sections: HCS-5-S017 to S020

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest National Park Authority’s concerns regarding the safety and suitability of the on-road section HCS-5-S018 to S020, particularly the lack of verges, narrow carriageway, and potential risks for pedestrians, including those with reduced mobility. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that, based on the highways authority’s safety assessment and site inspections, the proposal provides a safe and appropriate alignment for the KCIIIECP where no viable off-road alternative exists.

Representation number:    MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\121\HCS1611

Organisation or person making representation: The New Forest National Park Authority [redacted] 

Report chapter: Chapter 5, map 5f

Route sections: HCS-5-S022 to S037

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest National Park Authority’s concerns regarding potential flooding on the linking path between Calshot and Fawley, which could disrupt access and render sections of the coast path temporarily redundant. However, the Secretary of State notes an optional alternative route is in place providing a suitable diversion during high tides, ensuring safe and continuous access.

Multiple chapters - summary of ‘other’ representations making non-common points, and Natural England’s comments on them

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\98\HCS0093

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted], New Forest District Council Coastal Group

Name of site: Chapters 1 and 2 (plus Overview sections 6 and 8)

Report map reference: 1e and 2a

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HSC-1-S050, HSC-1-S052 and HSC-1-S055, HSC-1-S002                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the New Forest District Council Coastal Group’s concerns regarding the potential loss of public rights of way, the need for clarity on permissive paths, possible future closures due to erosion, and the adequacy of maintenance funding. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that ownership and maintenance responsibilities remain with existing authorities, that appropriate management measures—including signage, temporary diversions, and roll back—will be implemented, and that the proposed maintenance contributions and coastal access provisions are sufficient to ensure safe and sustainable public access.

Chapter 2 - summary of ‘other’ representations making similar or identical points, and Natural England’s comments on them

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\1\HCS0173 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\2\HCS1172 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\3\HCS1029 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\4\HCS0361 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\13\HCS0146 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\14\HCS0052 [redacted], Fishermans Quay Management Company Limited/Saveideal Limited

Name of site:    Chapter 2

Report map reference: 2a to 2e

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representations’ support for the proposed route and notes their positive feedback regarding road safety and the character of Lymington.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\124\HCS1826 [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\126\HCS1826 [redacted]

Name of site: Lymington

Report map reference: 2d - 2e.

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-2-S034 to HCS-2-S038 and HCS-2-S043

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations regarding alternative alignments through the boatyard and along Station and Waterloo Streets in Lymington. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed route along Gosport Street provides the safest and most suitable alignment while balancing public access and operational needs of the boatyard.

Chapter 2 - summary of ‘other’ representations making non-common points, and Natural England’s comments on them

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\125\HCS1826

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site: Near Town Slip

Report map reference: 2e.

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-2-S040 and HCS-2-S041

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the depiction of the landward spreading room. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the coastal margin is correctly represented on the maps and that the apparent thinness is due to mapping scale.

Chapter 5 - summary of any similar or identical points within ‘other’ representations, and Natural England’s comments on them

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\16\HCS1786, [redacted]
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\103\HCS1676, [redacted]

Name of site: Stanswood Road

Report map reference: 5d and 5e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S018 to HCS-5-S020

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the safety and user experience along Stanswood Road. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that, based on a Road Safety Audit and on-site inspections, the road has been given a green safety rating, and that alternative, more seaward routes are not practicable due to landowner arrangements.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\52\HCS1803, [redacted] Cadland Shoot Partnership
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\54\HCS1804, [redacted] Manor of Cadland Farms
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\68\HCS0561, [redacted] Cadland Estate

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding potential confusion over which areas of the coastal margin can be accessed and the risk of trespass. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the well-waymarked trail, with strategically placed waymarkers at key points, is effective in guiding walkers along the path and encouraging them to stay on the designated route, avoiding conflicts with landowners.

Representation ID  Organisation/ person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\52\HCS1803, [redacted] Cadland Shoot Partnership
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\54\HCS1804, [redacted] Manor of Cadland Farms
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\68\HCS0561, [redacted] Cadland Estate
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\57\HCS1805, [redacted] Cadland Estate
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\51\HCS1802, [redacted]

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ suggestion for the inland route through the Cadland Estate to be treated as an “alternative route” to reduce coastal margin. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that this inland route is the permanent KCIIIECP in this area, and designating it as an alternative based on a seaward alignment that could never be used would be legally and practically unworkable.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\52\HCS1803, [redacted] Cadland Shoot Partnership
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\68\HCS0561, [redacted] Cadland Estate
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\57\HCS1805, [redacted] Cadland Estate

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the extent and effectiveness of s26 directions to exclude access and protect sensitive habitats. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed directions use the ‘least restrictive option’—meaning that only the minimum necessary restrictions are applied—so as to protect the species and habitats in the area effectively while allowing the public to access the coast and encouraging compliance.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\54\HCS1804, [redacted] Manor of Cadland Farms
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\68\HCS0561, [redacted] Cadland Estate
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\51\HCS1802, [redacted]

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the designation of extensive areas of non-coastal land as coastal margin. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the inland alignment was necessary to avoid sensitive sites and land use conflicts, and that the creation of seaward margin is an automatic legal consequence of the route. The Secretary of State further notes that much of the land is excepted, and that provisions and directions under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 provide appropriate safeguards.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\54\HCS1804, [redacted] Manor of Cadland Farms
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\58\HCS1806, [redacted] Cadland Estate

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the designation of exensive areas of non-coastal land as coastal margin. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that much of the land will be excepted or subject to directions, existing barriers and the clear line of the trail will limit detours and more formal restrictions or exclusions are unnecessary.

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation

• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\68\HCS0561, [redacted] Cadland Estate
• MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\51\HCS1802, [redacted]

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the impact of signage and fencing on the landscape, the potential for Ordnance Survey mapping of the coastal margin to encourage trespass, and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures in regard to excepted land. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that existing barriers, clear exclusions, and visual cues on the ground, together with the provisions of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, provide sufficient safeguards to manage access and protect sensitive sites.

Chapter 5 – summary of ‘other’ representations making non-common points, and Natural England’s comments on them

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\52\HCS1803

Organisation or person making representation:   [redacted], Cadland Shoot Partnership

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representations’ concerns regarding the potential impact of coastal margin on the operation of the commercial shoot and risks to safety. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the likely level of public use in these areas will be low and that shooting activities can continue to be managed effectively through standard informal management techniques, without the need for directions to restrict or exclude access.

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\57\HCS1805

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted], Cadland Estate

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the adequacy of the Habitat Regulations Assessment. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the assessment has been updated in line with recent case law, considers all relevant evidence, and demonstrates that the proposed route and coastal access rights will not have an appreciable effect on European protected sites.

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\143\HCS1826

Organisation or person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: Cadland Estate

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S028

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the inland alignment of the route, lack of sea views, on-road sections, and potential public access to sensitive coastal areas. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a more seaward alignment is not practicable due to ecological sensitivities, land management constraints, safety considerations, and existing exclusions, and that the proposed route strikes an appropriate balance between public access, landowner interests, and environmental protection.

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\7\HCS1781

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site: Chapter 5, Lower Exbury - Calshot

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the inland diversion of the KCIIIECP through Cadland and Eaglehurst Estates rather than along the coast. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the inland alignment was necessary to protect sensitive habitats and species, accommodate land management practices, ensure safety, and avoid practical obstacles, and that significant detours from the coast are sometimes required under the Approved Scheme.

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\17\HCS1786

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site: Footpath through M’Lady’s Piece

Report map reference: 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-SO21FP

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the muddy and obstructed surface on the section referenced. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the surface will be reviewed during the establishment process, with improvements made where necessary.

Representation ID: MCA\Highcliffe to Calshot\R\51\HCS1802

Organisation or person making representation: [redacted]

Name of site: Stanswood Road

Report map reference: 5d to 5f

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: HCS-5-S017 to HCS-5-S027

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential disturbance to habitats and species from the establishment of coastal access. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a robust Habitats Regulations Assessment has been carried out, and that the proposed route and coastal margin, together with exclusion directions and existing physical features, are designed to protect sensitive species and habitats while providing public access in a carefully managed way.