Southwick Beach to be sold to Shoreham Port Authority for long-term protection

Adur District Council has agreed to sell its section of Southwick Beach to Shoreham Port Authority to ensure continued public access and long-term protection of the shoreline.

The sale includes the foreshore, promenade, beach chalets, public toilets, car park, and Carats Cafe, all of which will remain accessible to the public under a legal covenant.

The decision follows community engagement, including a public meeting held in July. Shoreham Port Authority, which already owns the majority of the surrounding beach, will take over responsibility for the 1.3-mile section of foreshore previously managed by the council. Existing leases and agreements with tenants, including Carats Cafe, will continue without interruption.

Councillor Jeremy Gardner said the sale provides the best way to safeguard the beach’s future amid financial constraints faced by the council. Shoreham Port’s CEO, Tom Willis, welcomed the move and emphasised the port’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable stewardship once the transfer is finalised in the coming weeks.