“The proposal will replace the old and tired timber constructed units with new contemporary modular beach huts… much better equipped to last in this harsh coastal environment.” [Design, Access, Planning and Heritage Statement prepared by Bailey Partnership on behalf of EDDC]
The beach huts in Sidmouth are currently the assets and responsibility of the District Council – and not the Town Council
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There’s been a fair amount of praise being directed at Sidmouth of late, including its beaches, from Jeremy Vine, on why his family love holidaying in Devon:
It’s not a classic sandy beach – a single triangle of brown sand is revealed at low tide, and that’s your lot – but you feel you’re facing proper sea, with heavy weather triggering waves that crash against rocks by the promenade.
The beach at Jacob’s Ladder is also impressive with its stretch of pebbles and cliffs and sea – and its colourful beach huts.
It looks as though they are going to be not simply given a fresh lick of paint – but, instead, there are plans to replace the iconic beach huts at Jacobs Ladder:
These existing huts, described as “life expired” and “beyond economic repair” due to weather damage and general wear and tear, would be replaced with contemporary structures designed to echo the classic beach hut style.
“The proposal will replace the old and tired timber constructed units with new contemporary modular beach huts… much better equipped to last in this harsh coastal environment.”
If approved, these year-round structures would represent a long-term investment in Sidmouth’s seafront, aiming to preserve its charm while adapting to the practical demands of coastal infrastructure.
The full planning proposals are on the council’s website at: 25/1290/FUL | Jacobs Ladder, Sidmouth – Beach Huts Replacement Scheme | Beach Hut Sites East End And West End (Jacobs Ladder) The Esplanade Sidmouth
The plans seem to have the general approval of most parties involved – with no objections.
Interestingly, the plans talk about ‘a long-term investment’ – at the same time as members of the wider community are being asked to “have your say on the future of local government in Devon”.
Which begs a few questions:
If we are shaking up local government, who will manage what? Including beach huts.
When it comes to the District Council giving responsibilities to Town Council: what counts as assets or liabilities? Which includes beach huts.
And when looking at council debt and council spending: what are the ‘core tasks’ of the council? Including beach huts…
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