Coastal Access Bill enters Lords with major concessions won by CLA

The Marine and Coastal Access Bill will tomorrow (Wednesday, 11 November) enter the House of Lords on the final straight of its Parliamentary run - with major concessions won by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

While opposing the coastal access part of the Bill the CLA has achieved amendments giving coastal landowners, in areas such as Lincolnshire, a vital right of appeal.

CLA East Midlands access specialist, Andrew Shirley, said: "We have fought hard for the rights of coastal landowners in Lincolnshire and around the Humber Estuary. Highly successful CLA lobbying has led to the right of appeal and private parks and gardens being excluded from the Bill.

"We have always been against the Bill in principle, but at least the Government has conceded in some areas. However, it still remains to be seen just how the implementation of the path will impact on coastal businesses in our region.

The rural watchdog expert added: "The CLA will, of course, be active in advising landowners during the implementation process."