Crumbling clifftop threatens to throw cafe into the sea
FOR years, this charming clifftop cafe has refreshed the walkers and daytrippers at Birling Gap.
Now the National Trust is planning to move and rebuild the much-loved eatery over fears it could fall into the sea.
Parts of the cafe, near Beachy Head in East Sussex, are just five metres from the cliff edge after severe coastal erosion.
Heavy storms in 2013 and 2014 saw seven metres lost over two winters alone, forcing the National Trust to demolish an ice cream parlour and sun lounge area that were perilously close to the edge.
In 2005, it was noted that the cliffs at Birling Gap had retreated 90 metres from where they stood in 1873. The erosion rate is so quick because the cliffs are made of soft white chalk.
Walker Simon Eddistone, 38, said: ‘It’s really sad but the cliff has been tumbling away at quite an alarming rate in recent years.’ Sensibly, the cafe was designed so it could be easily moved and the longterm plan is to rebuild it in a safer spot. A National Trust spokesman said: ‘The section of the building nearest the cliff edge will be taken down this year to ensure we keep visitors safe and continue to adapt to the changing coastline.’ For now, a cafe is open on the site – but in a building several metres back from the cliff edge.