No established need for increased Coastal Access - CLA Wales
09/08/05

CLA Wales is calling on the Welsh Assembly Government not to burden the taxpayer with extra costs by introducing extra, unnecessary, access to the coastline. Anglesey chairman David Alexander said at the Anglesey Show that there was no established need for increased access.

He was responding to the Countryside Council for Wales plan to look at the options for extending access to coastal land by 2009. The provision is made under Section 3 of the CROW Act and CCW will be undertaking a desktop study of existing provision before looking at ways of addressing any shortfall.

"We're involved in the consultation process", said Mr Alexander. "And we're not convinced that there is widespread demand for any more coastal access. We think there is already satisfaction with the coastal footpaths and existing voluntary arrangements.

"Why burden the taxpayer with another expense for something for which there is no established need? What are the benefits? The statistics show that very few people ever walk more than a short distance from their car.

"The current plans to create a 'round Anglesey walk' are already creating enough problems. There is a slavish determination on the part of the local authority to provide a walk which sticks absolutely to every indentation along the coastline, often within a short distance of beautiful bridle paths and scenically attractive alternatives. One of these proposed paths even cuts through a private caravan park"

Mr Alexander added that the real problem would be 'access to any new access'. It would place a huge burden on the public purse and cause real headaches for landowner and land managers. There are also major cost and other implications with erosion, maintenance, and public liability.

CLA Wales is in consultation with CCW. CCW will report to the Welsh Assembly Government by Spring 2006.