A brand-new, accessible boardwalk has officially opened at Holkham Gap, offering improved access to Norfolk Coast Protected Landscape. This £150,000 project marks a significant investment in inclusive infrastructure on our Norfolk Coast. Delivered in partnership between the Norfolk Coast Path National Trail and the Holkham Estate, the new boardwalk prioritises accessibility and helps to protect biodiversity in the area.
Holkham welcomes an estimated 1.6 million visitors each year, placing considerable pressure on the landscape and its infrastructure. The project team delivered much more than a like-for-like replacement, focusing on creating a long-lasting and inclusive solution which helps more people get closer to nature. The project was supported by Defra’s Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme, Norfolk Coast Protected Landscape, and Norfolk County Council.
The new boardwalk, which is part of the Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, is now 1.8 metres wide and includes non-slip surfaces, colour-contrasting bumper strips, and other accessible design features. The new design makes it easier for wheelchair and mobility aid users and people with pushchairs and small children to enjoy the route from Lady Anne’s Drive to Holkham Beach.
Dr Katy Owen, Protected Landscapes Manager at Norfolk County Council says, “This project is about equity of access. One in five of us will be considered permanently or temporarily disabled at some point in our lives – these improvements make the natural world feel much more within reach of a wider range of people. We think everyone should be able to enjoy getting up close and personal with nature – it’s so important for everyone to experience the sound of the wind through the pinewoods and the salty sea air of Holkham Bay with as few barriers as possible.”
Materials used in construction of the new boardwalk include durable, fire-resistant material created from recycled plastic bottles, which can last up to 75 years without shedding microplastics or warping. It has been designed so that any damaged sections can be easily replaced, reducing future disruption to wildlife, habitats and public access.
Cllr Andrew Jamieson, Chair of the Norfolk National Trail Partnership says, “This project shows that enhancing access and protecting our landscapes can go hand in hand. We’ve created something that welcomes people, while safeguarding the very qualities that make this coast so special. The way we plan and build must always respect the character of the landscape while meeting the needs of the communities it serves.”
