CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS

CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS is a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) registered in England and Wales, with Charity Number 1161529. The organisation is dedicated to the conservation, protection, and enhancement of the physical and natural environment of Cuckmere Haven, specifically focusing on West Beach and the surrounding cliffs. It operates within the South Downs National Park and aims to benefit the public and advance education, arts, heritage, and science through its environmental efforts.

Objectives and Activities

The charity's primary mission is to safeguard the unique landscape of Cuckmere Haven, an area designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This includes the protection of the delicate chalk reef habitat, which is internationally recognised for its environmental significance and biodiversity. The reef supports a diverse array of marine life, including crabs, mussels, oysters, and rare seahorses, and lies within a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ).

CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS works by raising funds and collaborating with local authorities, environmental agencies, and experts to implement effective and sympathetic preservation and improvement projects. A key focus has been on renewing sea defences to protect this iconic coastline from erosion while balancing environmental concerns to prevent damage to the sensitive chalk reef habitat.

Environmental and Legal Context

The organisation’s efforts have included advocacy related to planning consents for coastal defence works. In 2021, a planning consent granted by the South Downs National Park Authority was retracted following objections, including concerns raised about the absence of an Environmental Impact Assessment. CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS has committed to submitting further evidence to support proposals that align with environmental protection standards.

Notably, an allied legal challenge by Sussex Wildlife Trust, supported by the Environmental Law Foundation, highlighted the potential irreversible damage that concrete sea defences and steel piling would cause to the chalk reef habitat. This has led to an ongoing search for alternative solutions that will preserve this irreplaceable natural feature for future generations.

Governance and Support

The organisation is governed by six trustees: Rodney Castleden, Charles Peck, Sir Alan Moses, Crispin Freeman, Dan de Belder, and Michael Davies, who serves as Chairman. The charity benefits from the support of a diverse group of champions united by a shared commitment to the survival of Cuckmere Haven's West Cliffs and beach.

CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS also values its deep historical and cultural connection to the area, recognizing the importance of the site not only for its natural beauty but also for its heritage significance.

Significance

Cuckmere Haven SOS plays a crucial role in conserving a key part of England’s coastal heritage. By integrating community involvement, legal advocacy, and environmental science, the organisation strives to protect a landscape that is both ecologically valuable and culturally cherished.

This article is based on information provided by CUCKMERE HAVEN SOS and related environmental sources.

[1] https://www.cuckmerehavensos.org [2] https://www.cuckmerehavensos.org/about-us [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5055156 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/5055156 [5] https://sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/cuckmeremarinehaven