Notice by the Secretary of State under section 52 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949: Silverdale to Cleveleys, lengths SDC1, SDC3 and SDC5
Updated 27 July 2023
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2023
This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk.
Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.
This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coastal-access-section-52-notice-for-silverdale-to-cleveleys/notice-by-the-secretary-of-state-under-section-52-of-the-national-parks-and-access-to-the-countryside-act-1949-silverdale-to-cleveleys-lengths-sdc1
Introduction
On 8 January 2020, Natural England submitted reports to the Secretary of State setting out the proposals for improved access to the coast between Silverdale and Cleveleys under section 51 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (the 1949 Act) pursuant to its duty under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.
This determination only relates to lengths SDC1, SDC3 and SDC5. Proposals for lengths SDC2, SDC4 and SDC6, covering the remainder of the route, were approved on 13th January 2021
In reaching a determination under section 52 of the 1949 Act the Secretary of State has considered:
a. Silverdale to Cleveleys length report – part of Natural England’s coastal access report compendium for Silverdale to Cleveleys submitted to the Secretary of State on 8 January 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 March 2020
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
(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 SDC1, SDC3 and SDC5.
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 March 2020
d. Summary of other representations, and Natural England’s comments on those representations, which it sent to the Secretary of State in March 2020
Natural England has also made available here:
e. Silverdale to Cleveleys - the compendium of coastal access reports
Annex A: Objections which did not fail to strike a “fair balance”
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC1/R/4/0334
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised about the proposed scheme and thoroughly evaluated the matter. It is evident that the proposals are in line with the Scheme’s advice and effectively address the concerns. The Secretary of State recognises the effectiveness of the proposed fence in containing path users and agrees that dog prohibition is not currently necessary but recommends ongoing monitoring. Taking into account factors like stock-proof fencing and pedestrian gates, the Secretary of State concludes that the proposals achieve a fair balance.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC1/R/4/0741
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the proposed scheme and has carefully evaluated the matter. It is evident that the proposed route is direct, well-established on the ground, and shows no signs of damage. There are no safety concerns, and the route is widely used, even if alternative preferences are considered. Taking into account factors such as safety, convenience, and overall fairness, it is concluded that the objections raised do not outweigh the overall merits of the proposals. Therefore, the Secretary of State determines that the proposed route strikes a fair balance and is appropriate for implementation.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC1/R/4/1612
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by the objector regarding the implications of the proposed extension of the coastal margin, public access rights, fishing rights, land ownership, and potential impacts on protected habitats and species. The Secretary of State concludes that a fair balance has been struck between the interests of the public in accessing the land and the interests of the landowner. The Secretary of State determines that the proposed extension of the coastal margin and public access rights, with appropriate measures in place to mitigate potential impacts on fishing rights, land ownership, and protected habitats, is justified and in line with the objectives of the legislation. Therefore, the Secretary of State approves the report SDC1 with the recommended minor modification included.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC1/R/4/1392
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by Keith Sykes on behalf of the Morecambe Bay Wildfowlers’ Association regarding the risk of disturbance to both wildfowling activity and breeding/non-breeding birds in the protected sites. However, after careful consideration, the Secretary of State determines that the proposed route, with the recommended mitigations in place, strikes a fair balance between the interests of wildfowlers, bird conservation, and public access to the King Charles III England Coast Path. The Secretary of State approves the proposed route, taking into account the measures to mitigate disturbance and protect the sensitive bird species in the area.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC3/R/4/1506
The Secretary of State acknowledges the objection raised and has thoroughly considered the representation. In response to concerns from Natural England regarding livestock grazing and land management, it is noted that PINS suggests a seasonal closure of the trail between sections SDC-3-S044 to SDC-3-S049, with an alternative route to be utilised during that period. After careful evaluation, the Secretary of State determines that the proposed route strikes a fair balance and is appropriate for implementation. The revised mapping provided in the appendices will be used to clarify the matters related to this specific section of the report. The necessary measures, including the installation of fences, gates, and a suitable surface, effectively address the concerns raised in the objection and ensure that the proposals meet the required standards. Therefore, the Secretary of State approves the determination, as the proposed route strikes a fair balance and is deemed appropriate for implementation.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC3/R/4/0245
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised in the objection and conducts a thorough evaluation of the proposals. After careful consideration, it is determined that the proposed route adequately addresses the concerns and is deemed appropriate for implementation. Therefore, the Secretary of State approves the determination, as the proposed route strikes a fair balance and is deemed appropriate for implementation.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC3/R/4/0909
The Secretary of State notes the objection and has thoroughly considered the representation. It is recognised that the proposals put forward by Natural England align with the guidance outlined in the Scheme and effectively address the concerns raised by objectors by including a suitable fence. After careful evaluation, the Secretary of State determines that the proposals strike a fair balance and should be approved accordingly.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC3/R/4/0653
The Secretary of State notes the objection and has thoroughly considered the representation. It is acknowledged that the proposed route, despite impacting land used for cattle calving and rearing, can be mitigated by repositioning the existing boundary fence to provide segregation between the public and livestock. Furthermore, it is suggested that if the objectors desire to fence the trail into a corridor, they have the freedom to do so. In light of these considerations, the Secretary of State recognises that the public’s interest in coastal access outweighs any adverse effects. Therefore, the Secretary of State determines that the proposals strike a fair balance and should be approved accordingly.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC3/R/4/0679
The Secretary of State notes the objection and carefully considers the representation. It is recognised that the proposed route, while impacting land used for cattle calving and rearing, can be addressed by repositioning the existing boundary fence to create segregation between the public and livestock. Additionally, it is suggested that if the objectors wish to fence the trail into a corridor, they have the option to do so. Upon evaluation, it is concluded that the public’s interest in coastal access outweighs any potential adverse effects. Therefore, it is determined that a determination should be made by the Secretary of State to this effect.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC5/R/4/0412
The Secretary of State notes the objection and thoroughly considers the representation. It is recognised that the proposed route along the coast offers scenic views of the sea and is convenient, especially given its proximity to the adjacent section of the trail on the embankment. The alternative routes, situated further inland, lack the same level of convenience and scenic beauty. It is further noted that the requirement for dogs to be kept on leads, along with the presence of a fence at the landward base of the embankment, mitigates the likelihood of walkers or their dogs straying into the objectors’ field. Based on the adherence to the criteria outlined in the Approved Scheme and the fair balance achieved by the proposals, the Secretary of State determines that the proposed route is suitable and approves it without further consideration of the matters raised in the objection.
Objection Reference: MCA/SDC5/R/4/0801
The Secretary of State notes the objection and thoroughly considers the representation. It is acknowledged that the proposed route would allow public access to land currently utilised by grazing livestock on the saltmarsh. While no specific measures are proposed to prevent livestock from accessing the marsh, a kissing gate will be locked along the main trail between April and August. Additionally, the requirement for dogs to be kept on a leash at all times will help mitigate potential disturbances to the livestock. Furthermore, it is noted that a fenced seasonal alternative route will be implemented to separate the public from grazing livestock. Considering the potential adverse effects in relation to the public’s interest in coastal land access, it is determined that the objection does not indicate a failure to strike a fair balance. Therefore, the Secretary of State approves the proposed route, taking into account all the raised matters and proposed mitigations.
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/SDC1/R/4/0334
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-1-S008 to S020
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation but supports Natural England’s assessment that the provided measures, such as fenced corridors, pedestrian gates, and signage, effectively address these concerns while ensuring the preservation of public access to the coastal area.
Representation number: MCA/SDC1/R/10/1395
Organisation/ person making representation:
Lancashire County Council
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-1-S023 to S028
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State welcomes the support for Natural England’s proposal and is satisfied that Natural England has proposed the most appropriate route available, considering factors such as accessibility at all tide states and minimising inconvenience to walkers.
Representation number: MCA/SDC1/R/13/0019
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Ramblers
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
All at a general level but with specific comments relating to SDC-1-S023 to S029, SDC-1-S032 to S054, SDC-1-S072 to S082 and SDC-1-S082 to SDC-OA029
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by the Ramblers but is satisfied that Natural England has thoroughly considered alternative options and put forward a proposal that addresses the challenges and strikes a fair balance.
Representation number: MCA/SDC1/R/14/0016
Organisation/ person making representation:
Open Spaces Society
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
All at a general level but with specific comments relating to SDC-1-S023 to S029, SDC-1-S032 to S054, SDC-1-S072 to S082 and SDC-1-S082 to SDC-OA029.
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised by the Open Spaces Society regarding certain aspects of the proposed route. However, the Secretary of State is satisfied that Natural England’s proposed solution effectively strikes a fair balance.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/15/1503
Organisation/ person making representation:
Historic England
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-1-OA005
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges Historic England’s support for the route.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/1/1601
Organisation/ person making representation:
Peak and Northern Footpath Society
Name of site:
Access Road in front of cottages at Brown’s Houses
Report map reference:
SDC 1b
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-1-SO23 to SDC-1-S027
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised in the representation regarding the proposed Coast Path route but agrees with Natural England’s decision to maintain the main route, considering the popularity of the area for walkers. The Secretary of State also recognises the limited feasibility of alternative options and supports the inclusion of the newly confirmed public footpath on KCIIIECP information panels as a reference for walkers.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/2/1602
Organisation/ person making representation:
Mourholme Local History Society
Name of site:
Jenny Brown’s Point
Report map reference:
SDC 1b
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-1-S023 to S027
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Society’s representation regarding the need for a linking route between the proposed Coast Path and the chimney at Jenny Brown’s Point, as well as the importance of installing signage in the area. They appreciate Natural England’s willingness to collaborate with other stakeholders, including landowners, to facilitate the creation of such a route. The Secretary of State also encourages the consideration of the chimney’s inclusion in the detailed design of KCIIIECP signage and the exploration of opportunities to reference it on National Trails and England Coast Path web pages.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/3/1604
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Warton Sands
Report map reference:
Maps SDC 1C, SDC 1D and SDC 1E
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified, but taken to be SDC-1-S030 to SDC-1-S067 inclusive
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation’s support for the proposed trail alignment and the necessary exclusions/restrictions to protect sensitive wildlife sites/species. The Secretary of State also appreciates Natural England’s recognition of the complexities involved in improving public access in an area with significant nature conservation sensitivities.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/5/1607
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
‘Between Silverdale level crossing and Sand Lane, Carnforth’
Report map reference:
SDC 1c, SDC 1d
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified, but taken to be SDC-1-S033 to SDC-1-S065 inclusive
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State appreciates the effort and aspirations presented in the representation for a new cycle route between Silverdale station and Carnforth. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s view that the suggested cycleway falls outside the KCIIIECP’s remit and poses significant challenges related to protected sites.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/6/1608
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Not specified
Report map reference:
SDC 1a
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified on form, but various sections are cited in appended notes.
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation but supports Natural England’s approach, recognising the need to base proposals on the current situation, conduct regular reviews, consider nature conservation, and trust the sufficiency of proposed access restrictions outlined in the published Nature Conservation Assessment.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/7/1598
Organisation/ person making representation:
Silverdale Parish Council
Name of site:
Not specified
Report map reference:
Not specified
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified on form, but SDC-1-S001 to SDC-1-S034 inclusive are referenced in supporting document
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that the proposed route near Gibraltar Farm strikes a fair balance for walkers and landowners, offering an optional alternative route for those who may have concerns.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/8/1609
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Cow’s Mouth and Jack Scout
Report map reference:
SDC 1a, SDC 1b
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-1-S020 and SDC-1-S021
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding increased access through Jack Scout and the proposed modification for an alternative route. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s position that there will be no significant impact on the site and its features at Jack Scout based on their assessments and findings.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/9/1609
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Warton Sands the outer seaward section of salt marsh
Report map reference:
SDC 1C
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified, but taken to be SDC-1-S033 to SDC-1-S067 inclusive
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s proposed directions to exclude access over the inner parts of Warton Marsh and also supports its position that similar restrictions on the outer marsh should be based on nature conservation grounds.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/11/1610
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Not specified, but various locations mentioned in text
Report map reference:
SDC 1a
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-1-OA001, SDC-1-OA002, SDC-1-S004 to SDC-1-SO11
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the Optional Alternative Route and works near Gibraltar Farm expressed in the representation. However, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s perspective that the proposed route is acceptable and the best available option.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/12/1611
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Woodland Trust
Name of site:
‘Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW)’
Report map reference:
Not specified
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-1-S015 to S019, S028, SDC-1-S040 to S047
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the potential impact on ancient woodlands and individual trees and supports Natural England’s commitment to carefully consider the detailed information provided by the Woodland Trust and ensure that no damage is caused to ancient trees. The Secretary of State also takes note of the assessment by the Forestry Commission, confirming that the proposed works do not require additional permits or licenses due to their scale.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/16/1613
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Quaker Stang to Cotestones Farm
Report map reference:
SDC 1c, SDC 1d
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified, but taken to be SDC-1-S033 to SDC-1-S067 inclusive
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding sensitive bird populations but is satisfied Natural England’s proposals will help manage this effectively.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/17/1400
Organisation/ person making representation:
Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty partnership
Name of site:
Land within Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Report map reference:
SDC 1a to 1d
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation’s overall support for the proposals and appreciates the offered assistance from the AONB during the establishment phase.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC1/R/18/1615
Organisation/ person making representation:
Lancaster and District Birdwatching Society
Name of site:
Quaker Stang to Cotestones Farm
Report map reference:
SDC 1c, SDC 1d
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
Not specified, but taken to be SDC-1-S033 to SDC-1-S067 inclusive
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
Secretary of State notes the representation and Natural England’s comments and appreciates the overall support for the route.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC3/R/2/0019
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Ramblers
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-3-S017 to S019, SDC-3-S025 to S027, SDC-3-S056 to S065, SDC-3-S085 to S087 and SDC-3-S090 to S091
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation and its concerns regarding certain aspects of the proposed route but supports Natural England’s proposals and appreciates the efforts made to address access issues along the coastline.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC3/R/3/0016
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Open Spaces Society
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-3-S017 to S019, SDC-3-S025 to S027, SDC-3-S056 to S065, SDC-3-S085 to S087 and SDC-3-S090 to S091
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns and suggestions for specific sections of the proposed path raised in the representation. The Secretary of State appreciates Natural England’s efforts in considering alternative alignments closer to the shoreline and above the tidal limit, as well as exploring options to address issues of tidal inundation and land use constraints. Based on this, the Secretary of State supports Natural England’s proposals which hope to minimise the inconvenience caused by higher tides.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC3/R/1/0909
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
Section Overton east of Bazil Point to public footpath to Overton Church. Section owned by [redacted].
SDC-3-S060 to SDC-3-S066
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation and appreciates the concerns raised regarding the existing desire line along the landward edge of the foreshore. The Secretary of State supports the approach taken by Natural England to address the potential issues related to high tides.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/4/0801
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S039 & S042
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation made and appreciates the concerns raised. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s response and its efforts to address the issues related to fencing, locked kissing gates, and dog-related matters.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/5/1403
Organisation/ person making representation:
Lancashire Local Access Forum
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S041, S042 & S048 to S051
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the Lancashire Local Access Forum’s support for the proposed coastal access project and appreciates their comments. The Secretary of State acknowledges and supports Natural England’s proposed exclusions, recognising their importance in protecting bird habitats and mitigating disturbance risks.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/6/1431
Organisation/ person making representation:
Lancashire County Council
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S008 to S016
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised in the representation regarding the loss of informal access and supports Natural England’s proposed exclusions, recognising that these decisions were made based on careful assessment and consideration. These exclusions aim to prevent access to areas that are deemed unsuitable for public use, particularly for those lacking local knowledge.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/7/1395
Organisation/ person making representation:
Lancashire County Council
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S039, S040, S041, S042, S043, S044
SDC-5-S047 and track running south between SDC-5-S047 and SDC-5-A010 RD
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the management of gates and the need for a maintenance agreement. The Secretary of State notes Natural England’s explanation regarding the 1984 agreement and its applicability to the proposed trail.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/8/0818
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Route section(s) specific to this representation:v
SDC-5-S041 to S051 and SDC-5-A005 to SDC-5-A019 and restriction 5F
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation expressing concerns about the potential infringement of the covenant by the proposed route. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s response and the proposed access management measures.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/9/0019
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Ramblers
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S009 to S015; SDC-5-S016 to S037; SDC-5-S038 to S045; SDC-5-S047 to S051.
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation and supports Natural England’s efforts in improving access and finding the best solutions based on land management, nature conservation, and protected bird populations.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/10/0016
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Open Spaces Society
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S009 to S015; SDC-5-S016 to S037; SDC-5-S038 to S045; SDC-5-S047 to S051.
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation made and appreciates the concerns raised. However, the Secretary of State supports the proposals put forward by Natural England. The Secretary of State recognises the constraints and challenges involved, particularly regarding land management, nature conservation, and protected bird populations. The Secretary of State agrees that the proposed route alignments and restrictions are necessary to ensure the ecological integrity of the area while providing a continuous King Charles III England Coast Path. They commend Natural England’s thorough assessments and commitment to minimising impacts and improving compliance.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/11/1503
Organisation/ person making representation:
Historic England
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S001 to S003
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State appreciates the support of Historic England regarding the proposals and their impact on the Glasson Dock scheduled monument.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/12/1503
Organisation/ person making representation:
Historic England
Route section(s) specific to this representation:
SDC-5-S018 & S019
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State appreciates the support of Historic England regarding the proposals and their impact on the Cockersand Premonstratensian Abbey scheduled monument.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/1/1603
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Glasson Dock to Crook Farm
Report map reference:
Report Map: SDC 5a
Restrictions:
Map SDC 5A: Crook Farm
Map SDC 5B: Glasson Marsh
Map SDC 5D: Chapel Hill
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC 5-S001 to S016 (Glasson Dock to Crook Farm)
Restrictions in report 5
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the representation and the concerns raised regarding the proposed exclusions and restrictions. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s proposals, appreciating their explanations and considerations regarding suitability, land management, and other relevant factors. The Secretary of State expresses confidence in Natural England’s ability to find practical solutions while upholding the objectives of the Coast Path.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/2/1548
Organisation/ person making representation:
[Redacted]
Name of site:
Sea Wall at Pilling
Report map reference:
SDC 5e to 5g
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC5-S041 to S044 highlighted on the supporting evidence
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State takes note of the concerns raised in the representation regarding the alignment of the route near the flood embankment at Pilling and the proposed restriction on dogs. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s proposals which aims to minimise disturbance to protected bird species.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/3/1605
Organisation/ person making representation:
The Canal and River Trust
Name of site:
Glasson Dock swing bridge
Report map reference:
SDC 5a
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-5-S001
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the general support expressed in the representation, as well as the concerns regarding occasional swing-bridge closures. The Secretary of State encourages continued collaboration between Natural England, Lancashire County Council, and the landowners to address this matter.
Representation ID: MCA/SDC5/R/13/1422
Organisation/ person making representation:
Thurnham with Glasson Parish Council
Name of site:
Marsh Lane Bridleway and restrictions on Glasson Marsh
Report map reference:
Direction map SDC 5B
Route sections on or adjacent to the land:
SDC-5-S006 to S017
Secretary of State’s conclusion and observation
The Secretary of State acknowledges the concerns raised in the representation regarding the proposed exclusions and directions, particularly in relation to Glasson Marsh and the extent of restrictions in that area. The Secretary of State supports Natural England’s approach, recognising the importance of local knowledge and suitability in determining access rights.