Savills rural team in the south west is urging landowners and occupiers affected by the Coastal Access Scheme proposals to engage in the process sooner rather than later to achieve the best outcome.

Natural England is currently in the first stages of preparation for works to be carried out to improve public access to several stretches of coast in the south west of England including the route from Newquay to Penzance. Landowners are due to be contacted prior to proposals being published.

It is at this stage, according to Savills, that landowners are advised to engage with the process.

Charles Dixon, director at Savills in the south west, said: “If you are a landowner or occupier affected by the scheme you will be contacted by Natural England to discuss their ideas for the new stretch of the path. This will happen before a proposal is published. At this point you can discuss initial ideas for the route and new signs and gates that may be needed.

“It is also an opportunity for landowners to explore alternatives with Natural England, to ensure a more appropriate route for all. To get the best result, we are advising landowners and occupiers to enter into a constructive, informal discussion as soon as they are approached.

“Unlike other schemes which have an impact on private land, such as compulsory purchase orders when a new road or rail link is built, the Coastal Access Scheme offers no compensation to those affected. This makes acting at the beginning of the process even more important – if you leave it until the latter stages it may be too late to make a difference.”

For further information on the Coastal Access Scheme and for advice on how best to work Natural England on their proposals, contact Savills on 01392 455 700.