Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe, Chapter 6
Updated 29 April 2026
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2026
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Introduction
On 21 June 2017 Natural England submitted a coastal access report relating to the stretch of land between Kimmeridge Bay and Highcliffe 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. Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe – Natural England’s coastal access report submitted to the Secretary of State on 21 June 2017
b. in accordance with paragraph 16(1)(a) of the Schedule, the objections which the appointed person determined to be admissible objections
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 report given to the Secretary of State by the appointed person in respect of the objections which the appointed person determined to be admissible objections
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 August 2018
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 with modification those proposals for the route and associated coastal margin as set out in the coastal access report.
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.
Where proposals are approved with modification, the additional conclusions and observations of the Secretary of State in relation to the representations are set out at Annex C to this notice.
In the respects specified in 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 those objections relate.
These proposals are within the scope of the judgement by the Court of Justice of the European Union known as People over Wind (C-323/17), which concerned the approach to completing Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs). The judgement was passed after proposals for the Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe stretch were published but before they were approved by the Secretary of State.
To comply with the judgement, the Secretary of State asked Natural England to review its HRA for this stretch. In making their decision, the Secretary of State has taken the revised HRA into account. Representations and Natural England’s comments on them were made before the judgement was passed and should therefore be read in this context. The revised HRA and the representations are published alongside this notice.
The Secretary of State has made available at https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/england-coast-path-lulworth-cove-to-highcliffe:
a. a copy of this notice
b. the reports on the objections given to them by the appointed person
c. representations submitted against the original report 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 August 2018
d. summary of other representations submitted against the original report, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State on in August 2018
Natural England has also made available here:
e. Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe: the coastal access report.
Annex A: Objections which did not fail to strike a “fair balance”
Objection Reference: MCA/Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe/O/1-8 and 10-17
The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections LCH-6-S059FP and LCH-6-S060FP.
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 concerning the issues raised around privacy, security, environmental risks, and the route choice.
To address concerns, the Secretary of State supports the use of signage and other measures suggested by Natural England. The Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section without the suggested optional modification made by the inspector.
Objection Reference: MCA/Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe/O/18
The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections LCH-6-S062FW to LCH-6-S064FW.
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 concerning the issues raised around recreational conflicts.
Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section.
Objection Reference: MCA/Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe/O/20-21
The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections LCH-6-S062FW to LCH-6-S064FW.
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 concerning the issues raised around environmental risks. However, the Secretary of State agrees with the inspector’s view on the potential dangers of public access to the foreshore and supports the extension of the exclusion area as proposed by Natural England.
Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section subject to the extension of the exclusion area.
Objection Reference: MCA/Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe/O/22-23
The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections LCH-6-S069RD and LCH-6-S070FW.
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 concerning the issues raised around the proposed route. However, the Secretary of State agrees with the inspector’s suggestion to modify the route by using Chichester Way rather than Old Quay Road, as this would provide a safer option for walkers while maintaining respect for landowner rights and public access.
Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section with this modification in place.
Objection Reference: MCA/Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe/O/24
The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections LCH-6-S062FW to LCH-6-S064FW.
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 concerning the issues raised around privacy, security, To address concerns around the Christchurch Harbour route, the Secretary of State supports the use of signage and other measures suggested by Natural England.
Consequently, the Secretary of State approves the proposals in relation to this route section without the suggested modification made by the inspector.
Annex B: Conclusions and observations on representations without modifications
The Secretary of State has considered, in relation to the coastal access report, the following representations made under paragraph 7 of the Schedule.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\32\LCH0016
Name of representation: Open Spaces Society
Report chapter and route sections: Overview, Chapter 9 pp. 29-32
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Open Spaces Society’s concerns regarding the inclusion of a route around Poole Harbour as part of the KCIIIECP to avoid reliance on the Sandbanks-South Haven ferry service. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that using the ferry provides a simple and cost-effective solution for maintaining a continuous coastal path, with the possibility of re-evaluating the route if the ferry service were to cease or be significantly reduced
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\11|LCH1508
Name of representation: Environment Agency
Report chapter and route sections: Chapters 3, 5, 6 and 7, maps 3a, 5a-h, 6a and b and 7b and c
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Environment Agency’s concerns regarding the need for provisions to temporarily close or re-route the coastal path to accommodate beach management works, coastal erosion, and flood risk management. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that temporary diversions can be managed effectively through informal signage and barriers without the need for formal exclusions, ensuring a flexible and cost-effective approach while still allowing for formal rerouting if necessary for extended closures. Permanent changes due to erosion can also be managed through rollback procedures.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\30\LCH1577
Name of representation: Hampshire RoamAbility and Disabled Ramblers
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, land adjoining LCH-6-S008 and LCH-6-S015
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Hampshire RoamAbility & Disabled Ramblers’ concerns regarding the inaccessibility of certain sections of the KCIIIECP near Hengistbury Head due to steps and their suggestion to signpost an alternative accessible route. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position welcoming the suggestion and commitment in working with Bournemouth Council to incorporated this.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\2\LCH1572
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S058, LCH-6-S060 and LCH-6-S061
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support for Natural England’s proposals.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\4\LCH1334
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S058, LCH-6-S060 and LCH-6-S061
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the proposed route along Argyle Road and the suggestion to divert inland at Coastguard Way. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the suggested diversion follows a private road with no existing access rights, whereas the proposed route along Argyle Road utilises existing access and provides coastal views.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\7\LCH1273
Name of representation: Christchurch Borough Council
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, maps 6b and 6d to 6f
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the Christchurch Borough Council’s concerns regarding the potential impact on residents from increased footfall, security, and anti-social behaviour near Fishermans Bank, as well as the request for clarification on maintenance responsibilities and involvement in the design of signs and interpretation panels.
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests. Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Also, Dorset County Council will be responsible for the maintenance of the path with support from central government and Christchurch Borough Council will be consulted on the design of signs and interpretation panels.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\33\LCH1576
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, all route sections
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the proposed route along Chichester Way and Argyle Road and the suggestion to follow a more coastal path along the harbourside. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed route is more practical, as a more coastal route would require a costly and complex raised walkway and involve potential environmental impacts.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\35\LCH1578
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, all route sections
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support for Natural England’s proposals.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\8\LCH1461
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, maps 6b to 6f
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\16\LCH1422
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S060
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\17\LCH1450
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Overview Report, section 10 ‘Christchurch Harbour’
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\19\LCH1438
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S008 to LCH-6-S013
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\26\LCH1399
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, all route sections, Overview section 10 and maps F and G
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\34\LCH1398
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, all route sections, Overview section 10 and maps F and G
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\37\LCH1564
Name of representation: Two private individuals
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LC-6-S060, Overview section 10
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\39\LCH1564
Name of representation: Two private individuals
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, Christchurch Harbour
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns and opposition to the proposed route around Christchurch Harbour, as well as the potential impact on the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that a continuous route around the harbour is necessary to ensure year-round access and aligns with coastal access legislation, striking a fair balance between public and private interests.
Additionally, signage will be used to raise awareness of the SSSI’s ecological significance and encourage responsible behaviour.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\15\LCH1516
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S037 to LCH-6-S039
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential for walkers to encroach on private property at Priory Quay due to the lack of marked boundaries as well as the impact on residents’ privacy and safety.
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that clear signage directing walkers along Convent Walk will help mitigate these concerns.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\27\LCH1518
Name of representation: Private individuals
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S037 to LCH-6-S039
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential for walkers to encroach on private property at Priory Quay due to the lack of marked boundaries as well as the impact on residents’ privacy and safety.
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that clear signage directing walkers along Convent Walk will help mitigate these concerns.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\28\LCH1531
Name of representation: Private individual
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S038
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential for walkers to encroach on private property at Priory Quay due to the lack of marked boundaries as well as the impact on residents’ privacy and safety.
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that clear signage directing walkers along Convent Walk will help mitigate these concerns.
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\31\LCH1526
Name of representation: Private individuals
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S037 to LCH-6-S039
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential for walkers to encroach on private property at Priory Quay due to the lack of marked boundaries as well as the impact on residents’ privacy and safety.
However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that clear signage directing walkers along Convent Walk will help mitigate these concerns.
Annex C: Conclusions and observations on modifications
Representation No. MCA\Kimmeridge Bay to Highcliffe\R\38\LCH1764
Name of representation: Three private individuals
Report chapter and route sections: Chapter 6, LCH-6-S068 to LCH-6-S070
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State notes the representation’s concerns regarding the potential safety risks of the proposed route along Old Quay Road due to the lack of a continuous footpath and the suggestion to reroute the path via Chichester Way.
The Secretary of State notes that the route has now been modified to follow Chichester Way instead of Old Quay Road, as this would provide a safer option for walkers while maintaining respect for landowner rights and public access.