Moves to re-open sandy Newhaven beach shut off for almost two decades
The town's West Beach has been closed off by owners since 2008
Movement's being made to re-open Newhaven's only sandy beach for the first time in almost two decades.
The town's West Beach has been closed off by owners - who are based in France - since 2008.
A bill's introduced in parliament is now calling for public access to the beach to only be restricted for safety reasons or harbour operations.
Behind it, is Lewes MP James MaCleary - who says the beach "belongs in the life of Newhaven"
"For 17 years, families have been locked out of our town’s only sandy beach. Parents who played there as children have never been able to take their own children there – mine included. That is a real loss.
“We are now seeing genuine momentum."
The MP is also talking to French counterparts and officials about re-opening the space.
"My Bill in Parliament, alongside progress in talks, means this campaign is moving forward," he continued.
"The government must adopt my Bill and make it law – for too long the people of Newhaven have been let down.
“Reopening West Beach would restore a treasured community space, revive local pride and allow a new generation to make memories there.
“Newhaven has waited long enough. It is time to give the town its beach back.”