NFU: Resounding no from Defra on coastal access recommendations

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Friday, 26, Sep 2008 12:00

Defra ministers today responded to the Efra Select Committee and Joint Parliamentary Committee reports on the Marine Bill with a resounding ‘no’ to recommendations made on coastal access.

The NFU lobbied hard for several changes to the Bill, which remains a significant concern for many farmers and growers along the coast, including a special regard to be given to agricultural concerns, an opportunity for independent appeal and adequate resourcing for any new paths. The NFU also welcomed the Efra Select Committee report, when it was published earlier this summer, which echoed recommendations voiced by the NFU.

“This is not the first time that an Efra Select Committee has not been listened to,” said NFU Vice President Paul Temple. “At a time when budgets are under pressures across all departments Defra is not listening to the voice on the ground.

“We want to see successful access to the coast rather than one which is undertaken without understanding the full implications of the cost.”

Key points raised by the NFU include:

· Clarity about where the route runs; the so-called ‘spreading room’ does not provide enough certainty for farmers or walkers about where the path starts and ends, and the NFU will continue to push for the Marine Bill to make specific provision for this.

· The need for an independent appeal process for farmers affected by coastal access. Government must change its current proposal to prevent any applications by farmers and other occupiers for exclusions or restrictions on access subsequent to the original establishment of the coastal access scheme.

There was some good news with Government accepting the need to restrict dog access near fields growing crops but the NFU is calling for this to be taken further with consideration given to minimising the risk of dogs worrying livestock. The Government has called for more clarification under the Animals Act regarding animal owners' liabilities to the public by means of a Legislative Reform Order which the NFU will respond to in the autumn.

Mr Temple said: “I am really concerned that ministers seem determined to force through this pathway without learning lessons early on and providing sufficient funding and protection for those most affected.

“Defra ministers have roundly rejected essential parts of a pragmatic coastal route; an independent appeal is considered inappropriate, compensation unnecessary and budgetary requirements can wait for another day.

“I will be taking up these concerns on behalf of farmers again. Frankly I am amazed that ministers have ignored the recommendations of both the Efra Select Committee and the Joint Parliamentary Committee and do not make more effort to understand the implications that a new coastal path will have on farming businesses all along the coastline.”

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The NFU champions British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.