Lyme Regis to Charmouth Route Upgrade

Every Mile Matters because a break in the Trail impacts enjoyment

Major cliff falls back in 2001 along the Lyme Regis to Charmouth stretch of the Path meant that walkers and runners had to be diverted away from the unstable and dangerous route. A somewhat lengthy, unpleasant road-based diversion via the A3052 was required, with the aspiration of reinstating the Path along the cliff top. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing instability of the cliffs this has not been possible. The road-based diversion has remained in place for 10 years, limiting access to this part of the Path, putting those using the road diversion at risk from traffic and incurring travel costs for those unable to walk the longer route.

What we are doing

Thanks to funding from the SWCPA and the Rural Development Programme England (RDPE) / European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), our partners at Dorset Council are now working with Lyme Regis Golf Club on a new route which will provide a largely off road, less-steep path, with stunning sea views of iconic features such as The Cob and Golden Cap.

How it will help

Once complete, the new route will enable those previously unable to use the road-based diversion to enjoy this part of the Path again, whilst remaining safe.  The new route will enable walkers to once again experience being close to nature and the spectacular coastal views along this stretch, helping to improve their health and wellbeing and get maximum enjoyment from the Path.

Total project cost: £10,000

Association contribution: £10,000

Partners: Dorset County Council, Lyme Regis Golf Club 

Date completed: Autumn 2020

This project was funded with support from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in rural areas. Thanks to supporters of the South West Coast Path Association, we have been able to allocate £100,000 to leverage in £750,000 worth of improvements across the Trail as part of the RDPE programme 2019 - 2020.