Sharing the coast: should we extend the right to roam?

What’s on offer?

Join legal experts from Bournemouth University and University of Southampton, as well as representatives from other organisations. Together, we'll explore how law and regulation can help manage the use of these unique ecosystems for the myriad of potential users - local inhabitants, visitors, walkers, boaters, surfers, and the wild and domestic animals and plant life, that rely on the coast for a home, food, recreation or rest.

You may also be interested in the accompanying event 'Sharing the forest: should we extend the right to roam?', taking place on Wednesday 15th November at Lyndhurst Community Centre.

What’s it about?

Currently, only 8% of England is covered by the ‘right to roam’, which allows anyone to access areas of countryside, no matter who owns it. This means most of the country is not currently accessible to the public. Bournemouth is an urban area, but its heathlands and coastline present their own circumstances.

Who’s leading the event?

Andrea Jarman JD PhD, Senior Lecturer In Law, Bournemouth University

Helen Carr, Professor of Property Law & Sc Justice, University of Southampton

Sarah Nield, Professor in Property Law, University of Southampton

Open to

Adults and young people over 16. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Of particular interest to

Of particular interest to those with a stake in land access, for example walkers, land owners, wildlife watchers, watersports fans, swimmers, etc.