Lewes District Council – Survey – Have your say on outdoor gym plan for East Saltdean

Residents are being invited to share their views on a proposal for a new outdoor gym at East Saltdean Undercliff.

Lewes District Council today (Tuesday, August 4) launched a public consultation on the proposal, which would see a fitness facility that features bars and climbing equipment for exercise, strength training and general fitness for people of all ages, installed along the Undercliff Path.

The survey can be completed at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/outdoorgym and runs until Monday, September 14.

Councillor Laurence O’Connor, ward councillor for East Saltdean and Telscombe Cliffs, said:

“The undercliff is a unique coastal space and we want to make sure any investment reflects what local people want to see there. A calisthenics gym could provide an accessible, free-to-use facility that promotes health and wellbeing across the community. I encourage residents and anyone who visits the area to share their views about this idea in our survey.”

This consultation follows extensive work undertaken to assess an earlier proposal for a skatepark at the location.

Investigations found that a skatepark would be technically feasible to build on the existing undercliff concrete slab, and a public survey was carried out to understand community opinion and demand. However, more than half of all respondents were opposed to the proposal, and concerns were raised around maintenance, safety, seasonal use, the impact of shingle on the skating surface, and the presence of an existing skatepark at The Oval in Saltdean.

Following consideration of the survey findings, discussions with local stakeholders and councillors, and a wider review of options for the site, the council has decided not to progress the skatepark proposal.

Councillor Christine Robinson, another ward councillor East Saltdean and Telscombe Cliffs, added:

“Our thanks to everyone who took the time to engage with the skatepark consultation. The feedback we received helped us understand both the opportunities and the concerns associated with that proposal, and it has played a crucial role in shaping the next steps for this site.”

The council is also exploring plans for a biodiversity-rich planter at the base of the cliff, helping to protect the public from chalk falls while enhancing the local environment. It would provide a buffer from falling chalk and would create additional habitat for coastal plant species, building on the area’s biodiversity value. The undercliff sits beneath a nationally important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognised for its geological features, rare plants and wildlife.