Plan unveiled to improve footpath to Middlesbrough
Over £80,000 could be spent improving route, linking Britain’s coastal paths
A plan has been unveiled to improve public access between Filey and Middlebrough, as part of ambitious project to link up England by foot.
Natural England want to improve public access on the 111km stretch of coast between Filey Brigg and Newport Bridge.
The pre-existing Cleveland Way National Trail would be used for the vast majority of the route, although it would be subject to a near-£80,000 revamp, with new signage and footpaths added.
If the plan is approved, it would be the next link on the ambitious 4,500km national trail that spans the English coastline, and will take around five years to complete.
Natural England claim that the vast majority of those living near the pre-exisiting route in Filey see the benefits of the trail.
However for the plan to move forward, a public consultation is now being staged, which will include public talks over the next eight weeks.
“It is important though that everyone with a view on where the route should go has a chance to see the plan and submit a formal response if they wish,” said Malcolm Hodgson, National Trails Officer for the Cleveland Way.
This is the first time a proposal has been published for the route in Yorkshire and it will be the longest section of coast path to be developed so far.
Natural England’s Area Manager David Shaw added: “We have had discussions with landowners and key organisations along the proposed route; their input has been essential and helped shape the draft proposal – we thank everyone for their time and input so far.
“Over the next eight weeks, we are inviting all organisations, farmers, local residents, visitors and businesses to have their say. It’s important that all responses are taken into account and we look forward to hearing people’s views.”