By Mal Butler
IW Ramblers gathered in force outside the main gates at Osborne House, on Monday, to protest about English Heritage’s refusal to allow a new coastal path to run through the grounds.
The coastal path is a proposal, by King Charles III, who wants the path to cover a 2,704-mile stretch around England.
The Isle of Wight’s path is yet to be completed, because of the impasse to include a small piece of ground at Osborne, meaning a four-mile detour on the road. The owners of Barton Manor are also objecting to the coastal route of the path.
IW Ramblers chairman, David Howarth, said: “The protest marked a day of guest speakers at East Cowes Town Hall, including Mike Slater, Ramblers area manager, and the Island’s vice-president, Kate Ashworth.
“Following a picnic, we moved on to Osborne House, carrying banners and placards for a polite protest. There were more than 100 of us who were protesting as the rain came down.
“I feel we need more dialogue to try and get around this problem. We are only talking about a small stretch of land which leads to the woods.
“They say it is to protect the security of Swiss Cottage, but this is something supported by His Majesty and there are other paths through Sandringham, Balmoral and Windsor. We aim to have some sort of dialogue with his office to ensure he understands the situation. Maybe this needs to go back to Parliament.
“At the end of the day, we’re talking about an average of 50 people or so a day, going through the grounds to continue on their way around our beautiful Island.”
Isle of Wight Observer