Shoreham Port has completed its acquisition of Southwick Beach and adjoining land from Adur District Council, marking a significant milestone in the Port’s long-term commitment to the Sussex coastline and the communities who depend on it. The 1.3-mile stretch of beach, together with its sea defences, promenade, car park, beach chalets and Carats Café, is now under Port ownership, with a legal covenant in place guaranteeing permanent public access. As the transfer formally completes today, Shoreham Port brings together enhanced sea defences, new beach huts, continued public access, and a growing offer for visitors along the Sussex coast.
As a Trust Port with an established record in coastal management, Shoreham Port is well placed to take on responsibility for this stretch of shoreline. The acquisition extends the Port’s existing coastal protection work along Basin Road South, creating a unified approach to sea defence planning across a greater length of the West Sussex coast. Investment in sea defences and long-term resilience planning will be central to the Port’s stewardship of the beach.
For local residents and visitors, the transfer signals the start of an exciting new chapter. We have already expanded our beach hut offer, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy a regular connection with this much-loved stretch of coastline. The Port is proud to honour its commitment to keep the beach open to all, in perpetuity.
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