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<\/p>\nWalkers can now explore 35 miles of Chichester Harbour\u2019s wildlife-rich coastline\u00a0as\u00a0Natural England has officially opened a new stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The stretch runs from South Hayling in Hampshire to East Head in West Sussex, passing through saltmarshes, mudflats and coastal villages including Emsworth, Bosham and West\u00a0Itchenor.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Combined with neighbouring sections, there are now over 210 continuous miles of coast path between Calshot in Hampshire and Rye Harbour in East Sussex.\u00a0<\/p>\n
This new section\u00a0snakes\u00a0around various islands and peninsulas, taking in a mosaic of habitats. There are\u00a0opportunities to spot seals and internationally-important bird populations, especially winter migrant species\u00a0such as\u00a0brent geese, ringed plover, and\u00a0curlew. Thorney Island provides a quiet eight-mile loop for birdwatching around its wild perimeter.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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A fully open coast path will become the world\u2019s longest managed trail, at almost 2,700 miles. Photo: Natural England\/Strong Island Media<\/p>\n
Edel McGurk, South East regional director for Natural England, said:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The King Charles III England\u00a0Coast\u00a0Path is a boost to coastal communities. Walkers bring economic benefit to the towns and villages along the route. Not only that, the health and wellbeing benefits of the path will leave a legacy for the region.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Working in\u00a0partnership\u00a0with Hampshire\u00a0County Council and West Sussex County Council\u00a0on\u00a0this section of path has created\u00a0a safe and responsible way\u00a0for\u00a0people\u00a0to enjoy our protected landscapes, coastline,\u00a0local heritage\u00a0and wildlife.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The\u00a0Itchenor\u00a0Ferry,\u00a0operating\u00a0since the 17th century, carries walkers across the Chichester Channel.\u00a0A glorious eight-mile alternative route passes through several places of interest, including the roman palace at Fishbourne, the charming hamlet of Dell Quay, and historic\u00a0Birdham.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Councillor Lulu Bowerman, Hampshire County\u202fCouncil\u2019s executive member for highways and passenger transport, said:\u202f\u00a0<\/p>\n
It\u2019s\u00a0wonderful to see a further stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path open.\u00a0We\u2019re\u00a0proud to have played an active role in this fantastic project\u00a0that gives\u00a0people of all ages and abilities easier access to this biodiverse coastline.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
With warmer weather and longer days just around the corner, it\u2019s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and explore our beautiful coastal landscapes.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Councillor Joy Dennis, West Sussex County Council\u2019s cabinet member for highways and transport, said:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The King Charles III England Coast Path\u00a0represents\u00a0a major step forward for our communities and our natural environment. The improved path around Chichester Harbour with better surfacing, clearer signage and new boardwalks, makes the coastline\u00a0even\u00a0more accessible.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
This route will boost local tourism, support wildlife, and give people the chance to explore\u00a0areas\u00a0previously out of reach. Importantly, the trail has been designed to adapt to coastal erosion, ensuring that public access\u00a0is protected\u00a0in the future.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Once fully open, the coast path will become the world\u2019s longest managed coastal path at a total length of almost 2,700 miles.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Background:<\/p>\n
Photos and video\u00a0\u2013 more photos of sections of the stretch and a 60-second video are available here:\u00a0https:\/\/we.tl\/t-BoRmBfJqTi<\/a>\u00a0 (this link will expire in 3 days).\u00a0Please credit:\u00a0\u00a9\u00a0Natural England\/Strong Island Media. Various formats of the 60-second footage of this stretch of coast path are available on request.<\/p>\n