Notice

Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey, lengths FFB1, FFB4, FFB5 and FFB6

Updated 7 May 2024

Applies to England

Introduction

On 9 December 2020 Natural England submitted a compendium of coastal access reports relating to the stretch of coast between Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey 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”). 

This determination only relates to length FFB1, FFB4, FFB5 and FFB6. Proposals for lengths FFB2 and FFB3 were approved on 5th May 2023.

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

a. Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey length report FFB1, FFB4, FFB5 and FFB6 – part of Natural England’s coastal access report compendium for Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey submitted to the Secretary of State on 9 December 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 February 2021

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 report FFB1, FFB4, FFB5 and FFB6.

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 February 2021

d. Summary of other representations, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State in February 2021

Natural England has also made available here:

e. Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey - the compendium of coastal access reports

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

Objection Reference:  MCA/FFB1/O/1/FFB0282       

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-1-S044. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.    

Objection References:  MCA/FFB4/O/2/FFB0261

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-4-S001. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.    

Objection References: MCA/FFB4/O/3/FFB0260 

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-4-S001. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.    

Objection Reference: MCA/FFB5/O/6FFB0465

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-5-S039 and FFB-5-S044 to S055 and FFB-6-S001 to S006. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.    

Objection Reference:  MCA/FFB6/O/5/FFB0244    

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-6-S005 to FFB-6-S009. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section subject to modification of route section S008 to S009. The final infrastructure will need to be confirmed with the landowner after approval, during the establishment phase. The maintenance of the fence after establishment will be the responsibility of the landowner.

Objection Reference: MCA/FFB6/O/7/FFB0465      

The land in the Report to which the objection relates are route sections FFB-6-S005 to FFB-6-S009. The Secretary of State notes the consideration and recommendation of the appointed person in regard to this objection and approves the proposals in relation to this route section.

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 ID: MCA/FFB1/R/46/FFB0314,  MCA/FFB1/R/85/FFB0559, MCA/FFB1/R/104/FFB0241    

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

Name of site:  The coastal wall and embankment from The Boatyard, Waldringfield following the River Deben north towards Sandy Lane. 

Report map reference:  Map FFB 1f 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-1-S061 to FFB-1-S072 

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks all representors for their support of our proposed trail in Coastal Access Report FFB1 Felixstowe Ferry to Sandy Lane Waldringfield. The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised and has noted Natural England’s proposal to collaborate with Suffolk County Council to add signposts and waymarks to the route to address these concerns.

Representation ID: MCA/FFB1/R/1/FFB0363 

Organisation/ person making representation:     [redacted] 

Name of site:  Sandy Lane, Waldringfield 

Report map reference:   Map 1f 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-1-S046 to FFB-1-S053 

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB2 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for your support of their proposals in Coastal Access Report FFB1 Felixstowe Ferry to Sandy Land Waldringfield.

Representation ID: MCA/FFB1/R/34/FFB0008

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

Name of site:  Felixstowe Ferry to Sandy Lane, Waldringfield 

Report map reference:  Maps FFB 1a, FFB 1b, FFB 1c, FFB 1d, FFB 1e, FFB 1f  

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: 

1. Report FFB 1: All route sections generally.  

2. Map FFB 1a: Route sections FFB-1-S011 & FFB-1-S012, and FFB-1-S014 & FFB-1-S015  

3. Maps FFB 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d  

4. Map FFB 1c: Route section FFB-1-A001  

5. Map 1d: Route sections FFB-1-S029 and FFB-1-S030  

6. Map 1f: Route sections FFB-1-S046 to B-1-S055  

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: The Disabled Ramblers have made representations about FFB2, FFB3, FFB4, FFB5 and FFB6 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State recognises the Disabled Ramblers’ concerns about potential barriers and an increase in larger mobility vehicles on the King Charles III England Coast Path and underscores the need for unobstructed access and signposting. The Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s commitment to addressing these concerns and collaborating with Suffolk County Council for inclusive and legally compliant access.

Representation ID: MCA/FFB1/R/84/FFB0556 

Organisation/ person making representation:  Suffolk Coastal Disability Forum, [redacted] 

Name of site:  Felixstowe Ferry, and Felixstowe Ferry to Sandy Lane, Waldringfield. 

Report map reference:  Maps FFB 1a, FFB 1b, FFB 1c, FFB 1d, FFB 1e, FFB 1f 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-1-S001 to FFB-1-S005 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the Suffolk Coastal Disability Forums comments regarding potential barriers and path suitability on the King Charles III England Coast Path and underscores the need for unobstructed access. The Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s commitment to addressing these concerns and collaborating with Suffolk County Council for inclusive and legally compliant access.

Representation number: MCA/FFB4/R/16/FFB0058 

Organisation/ person making representation:  Suffolk County Council, [redacted] 

Route section(s) specific to this representation: 

• FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S009 
• Map FFB 4a -Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks Suffolk County Council (SCC) for their supportive comments and information regarding the history of part of the proposed route and the public desire to make this publicly accessible. 

Representation number:  MCA/FFB4/R/89/FFB0453 

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

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  FFB4 Wilford Bridge to Ferry Cliff 

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  FFB2, Whole stretch 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes The Suffolk Area Ramblers support for our proposals on the King Charles III England Coast Path and notes their suggestion to provide a route for walkers away from the main roads. The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s commitment to cutting back vegetation on verges to address these concerns.

Representations containing similar or identical points

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation: MCA/FFB4/R/28/FFB0570 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/30/FFB0572 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/47/FFB0579 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/48/FFB0580 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/54/FFB0586 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/55/FFB0587 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/56/FFB0588 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/60/FFB0592 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/61/FFB0593 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/67/FFB0595 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/70/FFB0598 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/72/FFB0599 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/74/FFB0600 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/75/FFB0601 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/76/FFB0602 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/77/FFB0603 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/78/FFB0604 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/83/FFB0608 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/87/FFB0610 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/93/FFB0614 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/96/FFB0617 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/97/FFB0618 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/105/FFB0622 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/106/FFB0623 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/108/FFB0628 [redacted]

Name of site:   Wilford Bridge to Ferry Cliff       

Report map reference:  FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh and FFB 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff     

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S034       

The Secretary of State thanks you for your support of our proposals for the King Charles III England Coast Path.                

Representations containing similar or identical points

Representation ID and organisation or person making representation: MCA/FFB4/R/31/FFB0515 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/32/FFB0573 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/42/FFB0576 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/50/FFB0582 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/51/FFB0583 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/52/FFB0584 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/53/FFB0585 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/58/FFB0590 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/59/FFB0591 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/68/FFB0596 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/69/FFB0597 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/81/FFB0393 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/82/FFB0607 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/88/FFB0611 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/94/FFB0615 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/95/FFB0616 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/98/FFB0619 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/99/FFB0620 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/103/FFB0621 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/13/FFB0462 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/14/FFB0567 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/22/FFB0569 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/8/FFB0541 [redacted]

Name of site: The Lower Track

Report map reference: FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh  

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S010       

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: [redacted] has also made a point, in the following entry       

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation           

The Secretary of State thanks you for your support of our proposals and notes the view expressed that the access to Sutton Hoo along the B1083 feels unsafe due to the proposed path being located near a main road with a high volume of traffic.

Representations containing similar or identical points

Representation ID   and organisation or person making representation: MCA/FFB4/R/8/FFB0541 [redacted]
MCA/FFB4/R/22/FFB0569 [redacted]

Name of site: Wilford Bridge

Report map reference: FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S001

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: [redacted] and [redacted] have also made a point in the previous entry

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges and values your support of our proposals. We agree that Melton Rail Station will enable walkers to access the trail by train, and hope that walkers will make good use of this option instead of arriving by car, thereby decreasing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/18/FFB0568

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  The Lower Track, Sutton Hoo

Report map reference:  FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State appreciates the strong support for the proposals of the King Charles III England Coast Path and notes the comment and clarification from Natural England on Table. 4.3.2.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566 

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: The “Lower Track”

Report map reference:  FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by [redacted] on the safety of walkers on The Lower Track (TLT) and the conservation of nature found on the proposed route. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s response, which explains the constraints and considerations behind the proposed alignment, emphasising the need to balance the interests of the public in having rights of access of the natural environment and the interests of residents of TLT as well as the protection of nature. Natural England state they have commissioned their own assessments of TLT and the conclusions regarding road safety, user access and wildlife were incorporated alongside the report by G H Bullard & Associates when considering the proposed alignment and alternative routes. Additionally, the Secretary of State commends Natural England’s commitment to incorporate the safety enhancements suggested by SCC Principal Safety Engineer that addresses these concerns.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/29/FFB0571

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted], East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership

Name of site:  The lower Track, Sutton Hoo

Report map reference:  Map FFB-4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh and 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFb-4-S001 to FFB-4-S0010 FP

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the support from the East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership  and notes their view that the proposed route “….would provide a much more pleasant and much safer off-road route for pedestrians…” than the pavement along the B1083.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/37/FFB0008

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

Name of site:  Wilford Bridge to Ferry Cliff

Report map reference: Map FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh and FFB 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:

1. Report FFB 4: All route sections generally 

2. Map FFB 4a: Route sections FFB-4-S002 to FFB-4-S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State recognises the Disabled Ramblers’ concerns about potential barriers and gaps on the King Charles III England Coast Path and underscores the need for unobstructed access, particularly for larger mobility vehicles. The Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s commitment to addressing these concerns and collaborating with Suffolk County Council for inclusive and legally compliant access.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/66/FFB0594

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  Ferry Cliff

Report map reference:  Map FFB 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S034

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for their supportive comments on the proposed route of the King Charles III England Coast Path.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/71/FFB0109

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

Name of site:    The Lower Track

Report map reference:    Map FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh and FFB 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-S-001 to FFB-S-010 

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566.

The Secretary of State recognises the concerns raised by [redacted] regarding the safety risk to the public using TLT as well as reduced privacy and access to residents, particularly with an increase in footfall along the route. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s commitment to install all safety enhancements proposed in the Suffolk County Council safety report to ensure the safety of walkers, residents and vulnerable users. This includes possible sightlines and visibility will be improved, and the parallel paths created will provide room for wheelchair users or walkers with pushchairs on TLT to move to one side and away from any vehicles. Additionally, The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s comments to not use the proposed alternative routes but to align the route along waymarked verges of TLT to ensure a balanced approach to coastal access while addressing the concerns raised by [redacted]. The Secretary of State agrees not to use the ferry crossing, but it should be noted that the proposed alignment connects the England Coast Path (ECP) to the quays on both sides of the estuary to allow users to easily navigate to them, should they wish to cross the estuary by ferry when it’s running.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/86/FFB0609

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  The Lower Track, Sutton Hoo

Report map reference:  Map: FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB4 – S001

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his supportive comments of the proposals for the King Charles III England Coast path and his insight into experiences of a pedestrians use of TLT. 

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/25/FFB0260

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: The Lower Track

Report map reference:  Map FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566.

The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by [redacted] about the wellbeing of walkers, drivers and wildlife on TLT. The Secretary of State recognises Natural England’s dedicated commitment to implementing crucial modifications in line with the Suffolk County Council’s Safety Report, with a specific focus on addressing concerns related to user safety along TLT. This can include signage, speed bumps, aligning the trail on verges and implementing crossing points to avoid mixing pedestrian access with traffic where possible. Additionally, the Secretary of State notes Natural England’s apology for inaccuracies in the report and further clarification for the costing of the proposed route.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/26/FFB0261

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted] 

Name of site: The Lower Track

Report map reference:  FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S002 to FFB-4-S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566.

The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by [redacted] about the position of the route from FFB-4-S002 to S009 which they feel is unsafe and requires modification. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s commitment to addressing these concerns and collaborating with Suffolk County Council to implement safety enhancements on TLT. The Secretary of State also notes the support for the proposed route alignment from the National Trust as it provides Coast Path access to visitors of Sutton Hoo.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/92/FFB0613

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: The Lower Track, Sutton Hoo

Report map reference: FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Ferry Cliff 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: Route sections FFB-4-S001 to S009

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his support of the King Charles III England Coast Path and his observation of the area.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/100/FFB0491

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted] 

Name of site: The Lower Track, Sutton Hoo

Report map reference: FFB 4a Wilford Bridge to Little Haugh and FFB 4b Little Haugh to Ferry Cliff

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S010

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566.

The Secretary of State notes [redacted] concerns of the proposed route of the King Charles England Coast Path, related to the reduced privacy of residents and the safety of walkers on TLT leading on to the A1152. The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s decision to not implement the alternative routes and use the proposed trail alignments to ensure a balance of accessibility for users and the privacy for landowners.  Additionally, the Secretary of State commends Natural England’s commitment to implement safety measures which are proposed in the SCC’s safety report that addresses the safety concerns listed. Natural England have proposed that, with the exception of crossings, the trail is aligned on verges running parallel to TLT from FFB-4-S002 to FFB-4-S009.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/101/FFB0092 

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]  

Name of site: The Lower Track

Report map reference:  FFB 4a and 4b

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-4-S001 to FFB-4-S012

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB4/R/20/FFB0566. 

The Secretary of State recognises the concerns raised by [redacted] on the safety of using TLT as well as reduced accessibility for their disabled son and unique family circumstances. The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s suggestion to align the parallel path along the adjacent verges to address these concerns. Natural England go on to state why they are unable to propose the route on any alternative path such as the B1083 to provide a route that strikes a fair balance for users of the path and residents of TLT. Additionally, the Secretary of State notes Natural England’s commitment to implement safety measures suggested, such as erecting signs, which will in practice deliver an improvement on the multi-user current situation.

Representation ID:   MCA/FFB5/R/15/FFB0465

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  Ferry Cliff to Ramsholt 

Report map reference:  Maps FFB5 d and e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-5-S039 and FFB-5-S044 to FFB-5-S055

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by [redacted] regarding the use of previously undisturbed land and the effect this would have on breeding bird populations. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s response to use the  proposed trail alignments to provide a balance between public and landowner interest and the SoS is content not to use the Felixstowe Ferry Service as part of this route. While Natural England will not use the ferry service as part of the proposed single route, NE have connected the ECP to both sides of ferry crossing to allow users to easily navigate to them, should they wish to cross the estuary in this way. The Secretary of State is satisfied that no further habitat assessment is required as prior assessment was incorporated in route design and an increase in access is not expected on this stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path. Natural England have stated that they do not believe that access to this area will increase significantly as there are few attractors for the length and the vast majority of people using coastal access rights in the area will stick to the line of the trail. Additionally, the Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s commitment to implementing mitigation measures to reduce disturbance on wildlife on the River Deben such as fencing and management signage.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB5/R/20/FFB0566

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: Ferry Cliff to Ramsholt

Report map reference:  Maps FFB5 a – e 

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: Proposed route on Maps FFB5a/5b/5c/5d and 5e from points S001 to S050 inclusive

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB4

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for the information provided on the bird species that are present along the proposed route of the King Charles III England Coast Path. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s response confirming that the species highlighted have been considered when designing the route to ensure minimal disturbance occur.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB5/R/38/FFB0008

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

Name of site:

1.            Report FFB 5:  All route sections generally
2.            Map FFB 5a: Route sections FFB-5-S001 and FFB-5-S008
3.            Map FFB 5e: Route section FFB-5-S055

Report map reference:

• Map FFB 5a Ferry Cliff to Methersgate Hall 
• Map FFB 5b Methersgate Hall to Nettle Hill 
• Map FFB 5c Nettle Hill to Rockhall Wood 
• Map FFB 5d Rockhall Wood to Cragpit Plantation
• Map FFB 5e Cragpit Plantation to Ramsholt

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-5-S001 to FFB5-S055

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by The Disabled Ramblers regarding reduced access on the proposed route, in particular access to the seawall for people who use all-terrain mobility vehicles and barriers at section FFB-5-S001 and section FFB-5-S008. The Secretary of State notes that Natural England is actively collaborating with Suffolk County Council and the Disabled Ramblers to address these concerns, ensuring structures and surfacing meets all necessary legislation to ensure legally compliant access.

Representation ID:   MCA/FFB5/R/57/FFB0589

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  Ramsholt

Report map reference:   FFB 5e

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-5-S047 to FFB-5-S050

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB6

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his comments on the effect of increased footfall on the car park at Ramsholt. The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s decision to use the proposed route as it will likely only cause a small increase of access numbers to the area “because we are following a route which has existing access.”

Representation number:   MCA/FFB6/R/65/FFB0625

Organisation/ person making representation: Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

Route section(s) specific to this representation:  

• Report – FFB 6
• Map – FFB 6a, 6b and 6c

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks the RSPB for their comments on the proposals and their broad support for our choice of route between Bawdsey and Ramsholt. The Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s commitment to ensure mitigation measures are implemented to ensure there is minimal effect on breeding bird species along the route, addressing concerns raised by the RSPB.

Representation number:   MCA/FFB6/R/17/FFB0058

Organisation/ person making representation: Suffolk County Council, [redacted]

Route section(s) specific to this representation:   FFB 6 Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates:  FFB4, whole stretch

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State welcomes the support of Suffolk County Council in the use of estuary discretion for the proposals and the alignment around the Deben Estuary that improves the current PRoW provision. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s intention to undertake a further review of the funding formula as the King Charles III England Coast Path is completed to see if there are any changes that should be made.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB4/R/8/FFB0541

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

Report map reference:  Maps 6a, 6b, 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB 6: Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his praise and support of the proposed route of the King Charles III England Coast Path.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB6/R/4/FFB0449

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:  Ramsholt to Bawdsey

Report map reference:  FFB 6C

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  Between FFB 6-S008 and FFB 6-S010. Close to Bawdsey picnic site

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB4

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his comments on the implementation of accessible viewing platforms on the sea wall. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s response regarding why they were not included and appreciates the commitment towards striking a fair balance for Coastal Access.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB6/R/63/FFB0627

Organisation/ person making representation:  Suffolk Wildlife Trust

Name of site: FFB 6 Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

Report map reference: FFB 6a, 6b and 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S019

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks Suffolk Wildlife Trust for their support and their advice given during the planning process for the proposed route. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s response regarding the ongoing management of the trail to reduce negative impacts on sensitive sites.

Representation ID:   MCA/FFB6/R/57/FFB0589

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site:    Ramsholt to Bawdsey

Report map reference:  Maps FFB 6a, b and c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S019

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his comments on the proposed route. The Secretary of State acknowledges Natural England’s clarification that the trail is not on sea wall but alongside route sections FFB-6- S003 to FFB-6-S008 which implements in use Public Rights of Way, addressing safety concerns and comments from [redacted]. Additionally, the Secretary of State notes Natural England’s commitment to implement mitigation measures to protect wildlife and work with Suffolk County Council to maintain the path to be in line with published National Trail standards.

Representation ID: MCA/FFB6/R/49/FFB0581

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

Name of site:  Ramsholt to Bawdsey

Report map reference: FFB 6a, 6b, 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S019

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

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] and [redacted] for their supportive comments on our proposals for the King Charles III England Coast Path.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB6/R/41/FFB0575

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: Ramsholt Marshes to Bawdsey

Report map reference: FFB 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:   FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S019

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB2, whole stretch

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for their comments regarding an alternative route along the EA One haul road to prevent disturbance to wildlife. The Secretary of State recognises Natural England’s decision to use the original proposed route as it strikes a fair balance between public enjoyment along the King Charles III England Coast Path and limits habitat disturbance along the Deben Estuary.

Representation ID: MCA/FFB6/R/88/FFB0611

Organisation/ person making representation:  [redacted]

Name of site: Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

Report map reference:  FFB 6a, 6b and 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land:  FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S019

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB4

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State thanks [redacted] for his supportive comments of this proposed route of the King Charles III England Coast Path.

Representation ID:  MCA/FFB6/R/39/FFB0008

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

Name of site:   Ramsholt to Bawdsey

Report map reference:

• Map FFB 6a Ramsholt to Ramsholt Marshes 
• Map FFB 6b Ramsholt Marshes
• Map FFB 6c Ramsholt Marshes to Bawdsey Quay

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: All route sections

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by The Disabled Ramblers regarding reduced access on the proposed route, in particular access to the seawall for people who use all-terrain mobility vehicles. The Secretary of State notes that Natural England is actively collaborating with Suffolk County Council and the Disabled Ramblers to address these concerns, ensuring structures and surfacing meets all necessary legislation to ensure legally compliant access.

Representation ID:    MCA/FFB6/R/15/FFB0465 

Organisation/ person making representation:   [redacted]

Name of site:   Ramsholt to Bawdsey Quay

Report map reference: Maps FFB 6a, 6b, 6c

Route sections on or adjacent to the land: FFB-6-S001 to FFB-6-S005

Other reports within stretch to which this representation also relates: FFB5

Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation:
Please see the Secretary of State’s comment for representation MCA/FFB5/R/15/FFB0465 to avoid repetition. The Secretary of State notes the same representation was submitted for both FFB5 and FFB6 as it relates to both stretches.