Work has started on creating a Swale section of what will be one of the world’s longest continuous paths.

The England Coast Path National Trail, once finished, will measure 2,795 miles and follow the entire country’s coastline.

A 36-mile stretch from Whitstable to the Kingsferry Bridge at Iwade is in the process of being added to the overall route, which it is hoped will become a new challenge for keen walkers.

It will mainly trace the path of the Saxon Shore Way, crossing Milton Creek via the Swale Way bridge. The only place where it will have to leave the waterside will be Ridham Docks. The project, due to be complete by 2020, is being led by Natural England and work on the Iwade to Grain section will start next year. A path around the edge of Sheppey will also be included, although it will be one of the last to be put in place.

Kevin Haugh of Natural England gave an overview of the scheme at the Sittingbourne Local Engagement Forum last week.

He said people would be consulted on the proposals and then a report would be published by next October or November for Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss.

As part of the scheme, all land on the sea side of the path will be open to the public.

Exemptions will include where there are private properties, businesses or where safety is an issue.

The path, which will benefit from extra funding to maintain it as a national trail, will also simply be “rolled back” where erosion takes place, rather than be closed, as is the case with existing paths.

Mr Haugh said: “Lots of people will use it because it will become a new challenge.”

A drop-in session about what is being planned is due to take place at the Ship Inn, Conyer, from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday, October 20.