Nudist beach future put to test

A consultation to decide the future of a Suffolk naturist beach under threat of closure has begun.

The sands at Corton in Lowestoft have eroded since the beach was established by Waveney District Council in the mid-1970s and are now a narrow strip.

Non-naturists and naturists no longer have space to sunbathe separately.

Opinions are now being gathered on plans which could see the beach reclassified to give everyone access to the area.

British Naturism has said it will contest any attempt to change the designation of the beach.

Waveney said erosion along the east coast had reduced the size of the beach in a holiday area so it was important to allow visitors access.

Opinions sought

Consultation forms about the scheme will be available at council offices throughout the district.

Local businesses, community groups and British Naturism have all been contacted directly.

Ken Sale, cabinet member for the environment, said: "Our proposals for the beach have generated a lot of coverage.

"Now is the opportunity for those with an opinion to formally express their views.

"We want as many people as possible to take part in the consultation and help us reach the right decision for Corton beach, its users and our communities."

The three-month consultation closes on 3 April.