Work to implement the all-England coastal path can now begin after the government approved Natural England’s Coastal Access Scheme.

Under the 2009 Marine and Coastal Access Act, Natural England has a statutory duty to improve access to the English coast for walkers and ramblers through the creation of a long-distance walking route around the coast and accessible land nearby.

The Coastal Access Scheme outlines how the walking route will be aligned, approaches taken to estuaries and areas that are likely to be used as spreading room where people can enjoy picnics and relax while on their walk.

Poul Christensen, chair of the organisation, said “The publication of the scheme is an important step in making clear, secure and consistent coastal access a reality for England.”

Natural England recently submitted its Stepping Forward report to the government, outlining steps those in power should take to safeguard the country’s walking routes for the benefit of everybody.

Natural England has delivered a set of recommendations to the government designed to protect the country’s walking routes and public rights of way.

The Stepping Forward report contains several measures which the organisation claims would benefit walkers, landowners, local authorities and farmers.

At present, there is a lack of clarity for the public about which walking routes they can use, as many footpaths and bridleways are not recorded on the ‘definitive map’ held by councils.

Poul Christensen, chair of Natural England, said he hopes the recommendations, which include reducing the bureaucracy of the existing procedures for recording pre-149 rights of way, will benefit everybody.

“Rights of way are a vital means by which people can enjoy our beautiful countryside and engage with nature, farming and their local heritage,” he added.

Adrian Morris, a campaigner for Ramblers, backed the plan, adding that the government must not “cherry pick” recommendations, as they will have no effect.