The pretty UK seaside town where residents battle to reopen their French-owned beach
Residents in New Haven, Sussex, are are fighting to regain access to their beloved beach, which has been closed by its French owners.
Newhaven, a picturesque seaside town in the UK, is at the heart of a unique and spirited campaign.
Residents are fighting to regain access to their beloved beach, which has been closed by its French owners.
West Beach, once a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, has become a symbol of community resilience and the struggle for public rights.
The beach in question, a stunning stretch of coastline known for its pristine sands and striking views, was abruptly closed off by its French owners.
The closure has been a source of frustration and disappointment for Newhaven’s residents, who have long cherished the beach as a central part of their town's charm and appeal.
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Local authorities and the beach's French proprietors have cited safety concerns and maintenance issues as reasons for the closure.
However, many locals feel that these issues could be managed without denying public access, and they are determined to see the beach reopened.
The closure has sparked a passionate response from the community.
Local groups have formed to organise protests, petition drives, and public meetings.
Residents argue that the beach is an essential public space that should be accessible to all, not just those who own the land.
Local Liberal Democrat candidate, James MacCleary, says he will make the reopening of West Beach a priority if he is elected as MP on July 4.
“The beach is a long-running saga,” he said. “For me politically, and as a resident, I desperately want to get it reopened to the public.”
Last week, MacCleary and local councilors met with the Newhaven Port Authority to discuss plans for reopening the beach.
Despite ongoing safety concerns, he believes that these issues can be resolved.
“We’ve come a long way, and I think we are closer than we have been at any time to getting it reopened to the public.
“We’re just a few steps away. Hopefully we can do that in the coming years,” he told The Telegraph.
The French owners of the beach have remained largely silent, issuing only a few statements through their legal representatives.
They maintain that the closure is temporary and necessary for significant safety and environmental upgrades.
However, they have not provided a clear timeline for when, or if, the beach will be reopened to the public.
