Comment

Issues and Options Document

Representation ID: 34946

Received: 26/02/2018

Respondent: Essex Bridleways Association

Representation Summary:

With regard to rural diversification opportunities, more green spaces within the District should be more accessible to both equestrians and cyclists (for example increasing access for cyclists and equestrians on the coastal path and other areas) resulting in a good opportunity for expanding green tourism.

Full text:

Paragraph 6.4: we note the aim to look at rural diversification opportunities and to explore the merits of green tourism. It would follow that if more green spaces within the District are more accessible to both equestrians and cyclists (for example increasing access for cyclists and equestrians on the coastal path and other areas) there would be a good opportunity for expanding green tourism. The Wallasea Island project is a case in point - the area is intended to be only accessible by foot or cycle, thereby missing out on the potential tourism impact of equestrians who contribute a great deal to the local economy. This is also alluded to in paragraph 6.122 on page 68 - the fact that Wallasea Island is not going to be accessible to equestrians but only to walkers and cyclists is discriminatory and the opportunity for increased tourism here is being missed. The Policy on Rural Diversification and Tourism should be expanded to consider the importance of including access for all, including equestrians, where possible within such open spaces.