A leading rambler has raised concerns with King Charles over the unresolved Isle of Wight section of the new national coast path.
The King Charles III England Coast Path was inaugurated by the monarch on 19th March at Seven Sisters in East Sussex, with the 2,700-mile route now open along around 80% of England’s coastline.
But on the Isle of Wight, the East Cowes to Wootton section remains unresolved, with campaigners unhappy at proposals to divert walkers away from the coast and along the A3021, avoiding much of the Osborne and Barton estates.
Kate Ashbrook, vice-president of The Ramblers and general secretary of The Open Spaces Society, met the King at the launch event and used the opportunity to highlight the Island issue.
Kate said:
“At some point there was a hush, so I took the opportunity to explain to the King that although the path was brilliant, there was a problem on the Isle of Wight.
“This concerned his family since his great great grandfather had given Osborne to the nation, and now it was proposed to prevent us from enjoying a route near the beach, instead sending us inland on a dangerous road.
Article continues below this advertisement “The King queried why English Heritage was hostile to a coastal route and I explained that it was because it feared people would nip up the hill and steal the royal collection.
“I explained to him that he was not the decision maker, which was a relief to him.”
Natural England, which has devised the route, is proposing a 2-mile diversion away from the coast. The matter is now expected to be considered by the Planning Inspectorate, with The Ramblers calling for an inquiry so all views can be heard.
So far, 3 of the Island’s 10 sections have opened, with 9 approved. Government mapping was updated in January to show a third Isle of Wight section as open to the public.
The Isle of Wight Ramblers says the path could bring major benefits for residents, visitors, landowners and local businesses, with around 90 miles of coastal scenery to enjoy once complete.
The organisation is now urging Natural England, English Heritage, local authorities and elected representatives to support a process that balances public access with legitimate land management concerns.
After 17 years of negotiations, delays and consultations, campaigners say the Island risks losing out unless a pragmatic solution can be found.
I wish the King would also focus on the extortionate
ferry prices to the island as highlighted by an island MP
£511.00 for a ferry fare for such a short distance is
OUTRAGEOUS
Ramblers and the like are responsible people but sadly there is a public element that cannot be trusted to respect the country side.
Only when there is some kind of deterrent that will persuade them to correct their behaviour should access be given.
We could all claim that our property is at risk, but only EH and neighbouring Barton Manor have their objections granted. Shove the oiks on to the busy road is their motto
But that argument could be applied anywhere. Why are the Osborne and Barton estates different?