Works to create a new permissive route for the Isle of Wight coastal Path at Brighstone Holiday Centre have been completed.
The route is now open and available for people to use.
Lost due to coastal erosion
The original coastal route was lost due to coastal erosion several years ago.
Initially a new permissive route was secured in agreement with the owner through the main site between chalets, allowing people to still walk close to the coast.
Unfortunately, due to problems on site, the permissive route was closed in March 2021.
Worked to resolve the issues
Since then, the Isle of Wight Council, Natural England and the site owner and managers have worked to resolve the issues and allow a new permissive path to be created and to avoid the need to divert walkers along the verge of the Military Road between the site and Isle of Wight Pearl.
Jointly funded by the Isle of Wight Council and Natural England, the works undertaken by the site managers have included the removal of derelict chalets and areas of concrete at risk of falling over the cliff edge.
These have also helped to protect the coastal habitat and its insect and plant species in this Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Bacon: An important part of the new coastal path
Cllr Jonathan Bacon, the Cabinet member responsible for rights of way, said,
“A new permissive path has been created on the cliff top in front of the chalets separating walkers from the main site and reconnecting the public right of way on either side of the site.
“We wish to thank the owner and the site managers for their support and Natural England for helping in discussions and for part funding the works as preparation for the new England Coast Path National Trail.
“This path along the cliff will be an important part of the new coastal path on the Island which is being launched in stages this year. Look out for announcements as each section is formally opened.
“This is all part of the council’s commitment to doing our best to maintain and support rights of way on the Island to which we have just committed £200,000 of new funding in recognition of the benefits of ensuring access to our amazing environment as well as the support our rights of way give to assisting the health and wellbeing of Islanders.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
