RAMBLERS are being invited to have their say on proposals for a coastal path from Harwich to Shotley.

Plans to open up a scenic 24 mile stretch of coast between Harwich and Shotley Gate have been revealed by Natural England.

The proposed route takes in the historic town of Harwich and provides the opportunities for people to walk through ancient woodland and along the shoreline between Ramsey and Wrabness.

The path also includes Manningtree and Brantham before curving around the River Stour to the Suffolk coast of Stutton, Harkstead and Shotley Gate.

If approved, the route would become part of the England Coast Path, a 2,700 mile walking route and England’s newest national trail.

Gazette:

Aidan Lonergan, Natural England’s area manager for Essex said: “Estuaries define the character of the Essex and south Suffolk coastline, and are an important recreational resource.

“Our proposals will increase access via a trail which can be used in conjunction with the existing ferry service and train links, helping to enable greater car-free leisure.

“We have gone to considerable trouble to make proposals that achieve this while avoiding damage to the considerable wildlife value of the Stour estuary.”

Natural England plans to improve existing coastal trails and provide new, linking sections of path in key places.

It has plans for a new route between Ray Lane and Copperas Wood to bring walkers closer to Copperas Bay and away from the B1352.

There are also plans for an improved seawall near Manningtree, known as Skinner’s Wall, which will be accessible for the elderly and disabled.

Currently, visitors have to clime a three metre high set of steps or use an access ramp to access the seawall.

Representations and objections must be sent to Natural England by midnight on March 18. Go to

www.gov.uk/government/publications/england-coast-path-from-harwich-to-shotley-gate-comment-on-proposals.