PLANS to open a 48-mile stretch of coast between Aust and Brean Down have been unveiled by Natural England.

The new route would link the national coast paths of England and Wales at the iconic Severn Bridge, creating a continuous coastal walking path of more than 1,600 miles.

The plans include significant improvements to coastal footpaths in North Somerset, including more than seven miles of new path between Clevedon and Weston-Super-Mare.

Natural England said members of the public now have eight weeks to have their say on the England Coast Path proposals.

Matt Heard, Natural England’s Area Manager for Somerset, Avon and Wiltshire, said:“We have had discussions with landowners and key organisations along the proposed route.

"Their input has been essential and helped shape the proposals - we thank everyone for their time and input so far.

“Over the next eight weeks, we are inviting all organisations, farmers, local residents, visitors and businesses to have their say. It’s important that all responses are taken into account and we look forward to hearing people’s views.”

If approved, this route will become part of the England Coast Path – the 2,700-mile long distance walking route and England’s newest National Trail currently being developed around the entire English coast by Natural England.

Councillor Caritas Charles, North Somerset Council’s executive member for leisure, culture and tourism, said: “The England Coast Path will enable people to access the whole length of our beautiful coastline and will provide a welcome boost to the local economy here in North Somerset by attracting more visitors to the area.

"Please take this opportunity to have your say on these proposals.”

This is the second stretch of the England Coast Path to be developed along the Severn Estuary, after a route between Brean Down and Minehead was opened in March 2016.

It comes during the government’s Year of Green Action, a commitment outlined in the 25-Year Environment Plan to inspire more people to engage with the natural world.

The route will be well signposted to ensure that walkers are able to follow on the path and progress their journey with ease.

There will also be infrastructure improvements such as new footbridges and steps, safety features and information panels.

Councillor Steve Reade, South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet member for planning, transport and the Strategic Environment, said:

“It’s great to see Natural England come forward with these proposals that will improve access to the coastal path in our area. The suggested route includes a section from Aust to Avonmouth in South Gloucestershire and will connect the national coast paths of England and Wales at the Severn Bridge.

“There now follows an eight week consultation period and I would encourage local residents, businesses and visitors to have their say on the proposals.”

Anyone may have their say about the reports during the eight-week period.

Owners and occupiers of affected land may make objections about the reports on specified grounds, which will be considered by a Planning Inspector before the Secretary of State makes a final decision.

All representations must be received by Natural England no later than midnight on 19th September 2019. Copies of the reports can be viewed in local libraries, council offices and tourist information centres. The full reports and all the forms and guidance on how to make a representation or objection within the next eight weeks are also available on the GOV.UK website.