MAJOR plans to improve public access along a 37-mile stretch of coastline between Harwich and Jaywick have been revealed.

As part of a huge project to improve access to England’s coastline, the stretch through Essex has been split into nine sections - the Jaywick to Harwich proposal was published on Wednesday.

The path will run from Jaywick to Clacton, through Holland-on-Sea, Frinton, Walton and around Hamford Water before ending at Harwich’s Treadmill Crane.

Natural England expects the cost of the proposed route to be £52,000 and will include new signs, gates, access and surfacing. It estimates it could cost £19,757 a year to maintain.

James Lamb, senior advisor for the project, said Natural England would install new direction signs, information signs, create level pathways along Hamford Water and cut back vegetation along the route.

Aidan Lonergan, Natural England’s area manager for Essex said: “The England Coast Path is a hugely exciting project and will enable people to enjoy more of the fantastic coast on a new or improved route.

“The stretch of coast from Jaywick to Harwich will take walkers on a journey showcasing the amazing diversity of the Essex Coast - from its traditional seaside towns, to the spectacular natural beauty of Hamford Water and the historic port of Harwich.”

Natural England has opened an eight week window for owners and occupiers of affected land, and members of the public, to make objections or representations for the Secretary of State to take into account when considering whether to approve the coast access proposal.

Ian Grundy, Essex County Council cabinet member for highways, said: “In Essex we are fortunate enough to play host to one of the longest coastlines in Britain.

“It’s important that everyone engages with Natural England’s consultation to allow easier access to our beautiful coastline through an England coast path that works for residents, businesses and visitors to the county.”

Representations can be made my members of the public, owners and occupiers of affected land until by midnight on October 11 by clicking here.

Copies of the report can be viewed at Harwich library.