Ramblers demand coastal path in Somerset reopens

A row over a stretch of coastline which has been closed to ramblers must be sorted out, claim campaigners.

The coastal path in front of a row of chalets near Minehead, Somerset, was blocked by the owners of the land earlier this year pending agreement over the route.

The Ramblers Association claim a diversion onto the beach is dangerous and impassable during high tide.

Somerset County Council said it is trying to resolve the situation.

Negotiations about a route at the end of the Dunster-Blue Anchor Steam Coast Trail broke down earlier this year and the landowners, Blue Anchor Chalet Owners' Association, closed the path.

While coastal access rights provide walkers with access to beaches and cliffs along the route there are exceptions, including if the land is used as a garden or park.

Rambler Ivor Sutton said he had used the grassy path outside the holiday chalets for the past 26 years until it was fenced off and walkers directed onto the beach.

He said the diversion is unsuitable: "There are so many holidaymakers down here and if it is high tide they can't use it.

"Anyone disabled or using a pushchair would find it very difficult to get down the steps and over the pebbles - it's very rough."

Somerset County Council said that it has a backlog of 330 complaints about footpaths to resolve and added that it is in discussions with the landowners.

The Ramblers Association said it would appeal to the Environment Secretary Michael Gove if a resolution is not found.

The Blue Anchor Chalet Owners' Association has been contacted for comment.