Part of coastal footpath closed in Sussex after cliff fall

A section of the King Charles III England Coast Path in Peacehaven collapsed as rubble tumbled down onto the beach below earlier this week.

Drone pictures show a pile of rubble at the foot of the cliffs after the fall, close to the Rushey Hill Caravan Park.

A spokeswoman for East Sussex County Council said that a diversion will be put in place for people walking close to the cliff edge.

She said: “The recent cliff fall at Peacehaven has affected the King Charles III England Coast Path, which is a national trail.

“We have inspected the site and, following discussions with Lewes District Council who are the landowners, will be putting a diversion in place to ensure the safety of the public.

“People are reminded that the East Sussex chalk cliffs are extremely unstable and can crumble without warning at any time of the year.

“Visitors are urged to stay away from the edge when on the cliff top, and to avoid sitting or walking close to the cliff base when on the beach below.”

The cliff fall caused rubble to tumble down onto the beach below (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

A spokesman for Lewes District Council said they are “liaising with [East Sussex County Council] about cutting a new path through foliage away from the area of concern”.

He said: “The East Sussex chalk cliffs are unstable and can crumble without warning at any time of year.

“We would remind anyone heading to the coast to stay well away from cliff edges and bases, and to follow the advice of the signs and posters highlighting the dangers.”

The cliff fall this week is the latest on this section of the Sussex coast, with two large cliff falls reported at Seaford Head last month.

Demolition of a cafe in Birling Gap was also recently completed due to safety fears over the continually eroding cliffs.

Large rock falls were reported in Newhaven, Telscombe, Saltdean and Birling Gap last year, including a collapse close to the Belle Tout Lighthouse.