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| North Sea Observatory - one of the features that lines the walk (photo:rocknrollmancer/ Wikimedia Commons) |
A NEW 16-mile coastline footpath from Skegness to Mablethorpe was today formally being opened.
It is the latest stretch of the England Coast Path and aims to allow locals and visitors alike to enjoy the sand dunes and other features, including birds (sometimes rare migrants) and other wildlife.
The stretch accommodates a North Sea observatory (with potential for watching migrating seabirds) at Chapel Point, Chapel St Leonards.
Rural Minister Lord Gardiner, says: “England’s beautiful coastline is a sight to behold, and I am delighted that more people than ever before will be able to enjoy its striking scenery during this Year of Green Action.
“With Lincolnshire
home to some of our most precious coastal habitats, the new stretch of path
will open up access while boosting valuable tourism for rural communities and
businesses.”
Interim Chief Executive of Natural England Marian Spain comments: “The England Coast Path plays a key role in helping people connect with and access nature and it is a privilege to open the first Lincolnshire stretch.
“From wild dunes to sandy beaches, the public will now be
able easily to enjoy the countless beautiful habitats between Skegness and
Mablethorpe.
The new route takes into account the area’s important coastal habitats, including the seascapes and unique habitats of Anderby Marsh, Chapel Pit and Wolla Bank Reedbed.
Walkers will be able to enjoy the adjacent sand dunes, clay pits and beaches, where a range of bird species such as the bearded tit and reed bunting thrive.
Users will also enjoy views of Wolla Bank Site of Scientific Special Interest at very low tides - a submerged forest dating from the Neolithic Period - and access to the world’s first official cloud spotting area at the Anderby Creek Cloud Bar.
Natural England is currently establishing a 2,700-mile path around the entire English coastline, with today’s stretch the eleventh to open.
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| Sanderling - regular winter visitor to the sandflats |
When completed, it will be the longest continuous coastal walking route in the world. It will also become a National Trail - the nation’s finest and most popular long-distance paths.
Today’s launch comes during the government’s Year of Green Action, a commitment outlined in the 25-Year Environment Plan to inspire more people to engage with the natural world.
Cllr Colin Davie, of Lincolnshire County Council, says: “I sure the new coastal path will
encourage many more people to visit Lincolnshire
and explore our brilliant coastline.”
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| Buckthorn - native coastal species and habitat for migrant songbirds |
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| An unusual white-marked blackbird spotted along the route at Anderby |
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