Overview

This bill clarifies the definition of a coastal path in England, removing river estuaries from its scope, and mandates Natural England to create a new coastal access scheme within eight months of the bill's enactment.

Description

The Coastal Path (Definition) Bill amends the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. Its key changes include:

• Removal of River Estuaries: Section 1 removes river estuaries from the definition of a coastal path under the 2009 Act.
• New Coastal Access Scheme: Section 2 requires Natural England to prepare and submit a new coastal access scheme to the Secretary of State within eight months, considering the impact of the bill's changes.
• Consequential Amendments: Section 3 makes consequential amendments to the 2009 Act and the National Parks and Access to Countryside Act 1949, reflecting the removal of river estuaries from the coastal path definition.
• Transitional Provisions: Section 4 allows the Secretary of State to create regulations for a smooth transition to the new definition.
• Financial Provisions: Section 5 states that all costs associated with the bill will be met from government funds.
• Extent and Commencement: Section 6 specifies that the bill applies to England and Wales, with different sections coming into force two and four months after its passage.

Government Spending

The bill necessitates government spending to cover the costs incurred by the Secretary of State, government departments, and any increase in payments mandated by other Acts resulting from this bill. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Natural England: Responsible for creating the new coastal access scheme, increasing workload and potential costs.
• Landowners and Businesses near River Estuaries: May experience altered access rights and responsibilities.
• Coastal Users (Walkers, Cyclists, etc.): May see changes in the extent and accessibility of coastal paths.
• Government Departments: Responsible for funding the changes and managing implementation.

Powered by nyModel