Cliff safety initiative launched for Sussex coastline
April 6, 2022
With the Easter holidays on the horizon, people are being reminded of the dangers of cliff falls on the East Sussex coast.
Without warning, large chunks of chalk cliff can fall hundreds of feet to the ground below, and, if you’re on the edge, you’ll be in danger.
Visitors are also being warned not to gather at the base of cliffs for shade or if the rest of the beach is busy. Chalk can fall from above without warning, and you will be in danger of getting crushed or trapped.
There have been at least 50 cliff falls in the past year.
The cliff safety campaign is being led by a partnership of The National Trust, South Downs National Park Authority, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Seaford Town Council, Wealden District Council, Eastbourne Borough Council, Lewes District Council and Rother District Council.
Sam Cordery, Manager of Seven Sisters Country Park, said: “We want people to enjoy this stunning coastline, but you always have to be aware of cliff safety because chalk, by its very nature, is crumbly and unstable.
“Our simple safety advice is to stay well away from the cliff edges and bases of cliffs. No photo is worth risking your life for.
“It’s also important that people are aware of the tide times if they’re walking along the beaches.
“Some beaches are only accessible during low tide and walkers could find themselves cut off by the tide and needing to be rescued by the emergency services.”
For information on tide times visit www.tidetimes.org.uk
