From 12 November 2025, new coastal access is in place between Portsmouth and South Hayling. The Government has signed the Access to the Countryside (Coastal Margin) (Portsmouth to South Hayling) Order 2025 on 11 November, moving this England Coast Path section from approvals to a walkable, waymarked route.

The Order follows Natural England’s approvals for three reports-Old Portsmouth to Eastney; Eastney to Langstone; and Langstone to South Hayling-confirmed in March 2024. It ends the access preparation period set out in the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, using the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 framework to create a legally secure path and a wider ‘coastal margin’ for the public to enjoy on foot.

What that means on the ground is simple: the promoted trail is open, and the strip of land between the path and the sea is generally available for walking and resting. Some areas remain off‑limits or restricted-buildings, private gardens, cropped fields, and most saltmarsh and mudflats-because they are unsafe or environmentally sensitive. Signs and online maps will show the exact line and any local conditions.

The route skirts Langstone Harbour, a nationally important wetland for wintering birds. Natural England’s plans steer visitors towards robust surfaces and encourage dogs under effective control, especially near high‑tide roosts and during nesting. The aim is shared space: clear guidance for people, quieter zones for wildlife, and a path that welcomes new walkers without disturbing the harbour’s protected species.

Climate resilience is baked into the design. England’s coastal access uses ‘roll‑back’, allowing the trail to move if erosion, flooding or defence works reshape the shore. That avoids lengthy legal diversions and keeps the route open as projects such as the North Portsea Island coastal defences progress-pragmatic adaptation as sea levels rise over the coming decades.

Access is also a fairness issue. Regular time in green and blue spaces is linked to better mental wellbeing and physical activity, particularly for people facing health inequalities, according to Public Health England’s 2020 evidence review. Surfaces will vary and not every section will be step‑free, but clearer waymarking and local improvements can make waterside time more achievable for more households.

The path should give a steady off‑season boost to local businesses. National Trails consistently report that walkers spread spend across cafés, corner shops, ferries and B&Bs rather than in single big purchases. A continuous, signed line from Old Portsmouth and Eastney to Ferry Point helps direct that everyday custom when coastal traders need it most.

If you are heading out, plan around tides and weather, give birds extra space at high tide, and keep dogs close where flocks are feeding or nesting. Where shores are fragile-such as saltmarsh and mudflat-stick to the promoted line or any boardwalks. If works or wildlife require a temporary closure, look for on‑site notices and follow the signed alternatives.

This is an administrative step with real‑world outcomes. Signed by Defra minister Hayman of Ullock on 11 November, the Order confirms preparation is complete and access begins on 12 November 2025. Natural England and local access authorities will finish waymarking and minor works so the coast here is easier to reach, better understood and better cared for.