A beach that has been off-limits to the public for nearly two decades could reopen just in time for summer. Newhaven West Beach, located below the historic Newhaven Fort in East Sussex, was officially closed in 2008 due to the dangerous condition of its cliffs. French owners, Newhaven Port and Properties (NPP), cited crumbling sea-defence walls and harbour steps as a threat to public safety, cutting off a beloved public space that locals described as a part of life.
MP Proposes Bill to Reopen Beach
Now, 18 years later, James MacCleary, the Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, has presented a bill to Parliament aiming to secure legal public access to the beautiful sandy beach. Advocating for the reopening, MacCleary stated: '17 years ago, this beach was closed to the people of Newhaven. For generations, the West Beach was where children learned to swim, families spent their summer and memories were made. It was not just a stretch of sand; it was a part of life.' The MP called on the government to adopt the bill, make it law, and give Newhaven its beach back.
Previous Campaigns and Legal Battles
This is not the first time campaigners have sought to reopen the beach. In 2015, locals attempted to have the beach awarded protected status to force officials to permit public access. However, the Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favour of NPP. Currently, a fence prevents people from entering the beach or accessing the breakwater and lighthouse.
Coastal Erosion and Government Response
Coastal erosion, exacerbated by climate change and rising sea levels, has been impacting beaches across Britain. In response, the government has been working with coastal groups to develop Shoreline Management Plans (SMPs). These detailed guides outline a planned approach to managing flood and coastal erosion risk around the coast of England through to 2105. This threat has already caused destruction to homes, businesses, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Other Beach Reopenings
In related news, iconic pink beaches in Montenegro have reopened to tourists after five years. Sveti Stefan, a small island and luxury resort village, was closed to the public in 2021 due to a legal dispute over beach access. Now, hotel operator Aman has announced it will reopen its doors to guests this summer. Under the new settlement, locals will have free access to Sveti Stefan Beach and King's Beach, while Queen's Beach will remain private for hotel guests. All three beaches feature crystal-clear blue waters and dramatic coastal scenery, with a distinctive pink hue from fine sand, crushed red shells, and pebbles.
