North Essex and Saffron Walden Bridleways Group

The British Horse Society is calling on all riders to sign a petition asking the Government to give them a say in new access and rights of way legislation.

The BHS Access Department and its regional access and bridleway officers would like riders and other horse lovers to sign the petition at the No.10 petition website.

The Government is presently considering giving a right of access for walkers round the coast of England. In Wales and Scotland, the proposals cover riders too, but not yet in England.

We worry that the new walkers' right would close beaches that are currently used by riders. We would also like to see linking bridleways to create a coastal route where the beaches are unsuitable.

Phil Wadey, BHS regional access officer for the East of England said, "Beach riding is highly enjoyable and takes place on many beaches without any problems at all. I really enjoyed my last trip to Holcomb in Norfolk for a morning's riding. The Government proposals put these facilities at risk of closure to riders. We need everyone who shares a desire to keep beaches available to sign the petition soonest."

Sign the petition at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Equestrianaccess/

More information about the proposals:
• BBC report on the proposals (June 2007)
• Rambler's Association: "A coalition of Britain's leading outdoor organisations is calling for Natural England to recommend ministers to introduce a permanent, multi-user, right of access around EnglandÕs beautiful coastline" (Feb 2006):

  Henry Whittaker, Equestrian Access Forum: "The EAF recognises the importance of coastal and beach access as it provides a valuable resource to horse riders. Any proposals should provide for multi use which will produce increased economic benefits to the coastal regions".

• Natural England's proposals (June 2007)

  Should Government decide following its consultation to proceed with the recommended way forward, Natural England envisages a ten-year implementation programme that would fully involve local authorities, farmers and landowners and other key local interests. Natural England is the Government agency that works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas... Natural England has advised Government to introduce new legislation to provide the public with continuous access, so far as practicable, around England's 4500km coastline.

Rambler's Association map of "targets" for coastal access improvement

1. Cromer Replacement footpath needed to Overstrand (pictured above) due to coastal erosion
2. Sheringham to Cromer Current path is far from sea. Erosion also a problem
3. Isle of Sheppey No access on a 2.5 mile (4km) stretch
4. Chichester Harbour No access on a 3 mile (5km) stretch
5. Seatown South West Coast Path is diverted to narrow road
6. Strete Gate to Warren Point South West Coast Path is diverted inland for 2.5 miles (4km)

(source: Rambler's Association)