The New Forest National Park Authority’s Recreation Management Strategy has been published following public consultation.
The report touches on the start of the Solent Way which continues the Bournemouth Coast Path beyond Milford-on-Sea.
The “coastal path between Lymington and Hurst Castle including Hurst Spit” is highlighted as a “honey pot” site.
Looking to the effect of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, introducing a new coastal trail, the report says: “Where there is an existing route along the coast which meets the relevant criteria, the trail is likely to adopt this line, as for example between Hurst Spit and Lymington.
“Where there is no suitable route, a new convenient or improved route will be provided that meets the criteria set out by Natural England.”
There is acknowlegement that west of Lymington the Solent Way is little used but a suggestion that “there is likely to be considerable latent demand for access if new facilities are provided”.
Copies of the Recreation Management Strategy can be downloaded from the New Forest website.
