12/08/2022
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We've welcomed the government announcement that the Coast to Coast walking route is to become a National Trail – bringing a commitment of £5.6m to upgrade the 197-mile route, much of which runs through North Yorkshire.
The route stretches from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in the North York Moors National Park. Twenty-six miles of the route pass along public rights of way and rural roads which we manage.
Natural England announced the award of National Trail status today (August 12), saying the organisation would work with partners to improve the popular route. This will include funding to develop a community engagement programme and to maximise economic and health benefits for local people and businesses.
Benefits or becoming a National Trail include:
• the path being made more accessible, with improvements possibly including the removal of stiles and using accessible gates where possible
• high-quality signage, waymarking, path surfaces and infrastructure
• developing circular paths and link routes
• working with local businesses to ensure they are aware of the economic opportunities
• a long-term commitment to funding to help local authorities maintain the path
Enhancements will be undertaken over three years, with the upgraded path expected to open in 2025.
Read the full story at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/news/article/upgrade-coast-coast-route-national-trail-welcomed
