East Suffolk Council
Views sought on Southwold Harbour and Static Caravan Site
East Suffolk Council is seeking the opinions of local people and stakeholders about the future of Southwold Harbour, and plans to revitalise the Southwold Static Caravan Site.
The harbour site requires considerable improvement and draft proposals are being presented which seek to increase investment in both the harbour and the caravan site, reflecting a collective ambition to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of Southwold and surrounding communities.
Participants are invited to complete an online survey, fill in paper copies, or attend one of three drop-in events taking place in the town.
The proposals seek to balance the rich heritage and charm of the Harbour with the needs and aspirations of the community and visitors. Local participation will be crucial in helping shape a future which respects the site’s history while embracing innovation and sustainability.
Currently, the caravan site is operated through the issuing of annual licences to static caravan owners. It has limited infrastructure, limited access to non-residents and limited income to support the wider harbour. Although increased investment in, and revenue from, an improved caravan site would support the harbour, considerable external funding would still be required to safeguard its future.
The Southwold Harbour Vision 2035 and the Static Caravan Site Revitalisation project represent a collective ambition to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of Southwold and surrounding communities.
A spokesperson for East Suffolk Council said:
"The recent findings of the Royal Haskoning report a clear threat to Southwold Harbour, which demands immediate action. The degradation of the harbour infrastructure poses a significant risk to its integrity and safety.
“The Council is bound by a statutory obligation to operate and maintain the harbour and the backing of our local communities is essential to help leverage the external funding necessary for these vital projects.
“In addition, the caravan site has historically contributed to the financial upkeep of the harbour, and a formal arrangement which creates a sustainable, commercial model which ensures the ongoing preservation and enhancement of our harbour facilities is critical.
“We must collectively rise to the occasion, ensuring that our harbour, a cornerstone of our community's identity and well-being, is secured and enhanced for current and future generations. The time to start is now, backed by the unequivocal commitment of our community and the Harbour Management Committee."
This consultation is now closed.