Osborne House coast path refusal latest as Natural England issues statement

What's been described as a "dangerous and busy" main road is considered the "best available option" for a new coastal route, Natural England has said, after English Heritage refused to allow a path to run through the grounds of the Isle of Wight's Osborne House.

Campaigners were out in force on Monday (May 6), in protest over the East Cowes to Wootton stretch of the King Charles III Coast Path.

Originally, Natural England, the agency responsible for the path, wanted it to run from Norris Wood, along the coast and past the beach at Osborne House

However, English Heritage, which manages the former Royal residence, refused access, arguing opening the path is a security risk to Queen Victoria's "irreplaceable" collection.

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This was disputed by the Isle of Wight Ramblers, which argued that the real risk is to walkers, who would have to go along an alternative route on the A3021 and York Avenue, towards Whippingham.

Kate Ashbrook, vice president of Ramblers Great Britain, said: "It could easily go along the coast at Osborne. It doesn't go near the house at all. It goes along the coast."

Proposals for the coast path between East Cowes and Wootton. (Image: Isle of Wight Ramblers)

Following the rally on Monday, David Bailey, head of historic properties at English Heritage, said: “We’re in close conversation with the Isle of Wight Ramblers not only about this rally, but about how, although the coast path can’t pass through Osborne, we could still open up the estate to walkers in a way that works for everyone.”

Now, Natural England has told the County Press that the most likely option going forward is to have the path go inland.

A spokesperson said: “We are continuing to work with partners and landowners to find the best route for the King Charles III England Coast Path on the Isle of Wight.

“We have listened carefully to suggestions to improve public access to the area; however, we are also bound by statutory criteria which must balance public access with the rights of landowners and occupiers.

From left: David Howarth and Kate Ashbrook. (Image: IWCP)

“We believe the inland route that we are now likely to propose is the best available option available given that methodology.”

The Ramblers group has previously said members are prepared to take the matter to parliament, if necessary.