Peacehaven cliff fall: new drone photos reveal huge damage as warning signs put up at ‘unstable’ edge

New warning signs have been put up after a large cliff fall in Peacehaven.

The incident happened on Wednesday, February 28, near Rushey Hill Caravan Park with the damage cutting across a footpath.

The new photographs show the extent of the fall, as well as the signs put up on Monday, March 4, to warn people about the unstable cliff edge.

An East Sussex County Council spokesperson said: “The recent cliff fall at Peacehaven has affected the King Charles III England Coast Path, which is a National Trail.

“We have inspected the site and, following discussions with Lewes District Council who are the landowner, have put a diversion in place away from the site of the cliff fall to ensure the safety of the public. Signs warning walkers of the unstable cliff edge have also been erected. People are reminded that the East Sussex chalk cliffs are extremely unstable and can crumble without warning at any time of year. Visitors are urged to stay away from the edge when on the cliff top, and to avoid sitting or walking close to the cliff base when on the beach below.”

A Lewes District Council spokesperson said the East Sussex chalk cliffs are unstable and ‘can crumble without warning at any time of year’. They said: “We would remind anyone heading to the coast to stay well away from cliff edges and bases, and to follow the advice of the signs and posters highlighting the dangers. Visitors are also advised to always check tide times before walking along beaches. For information on tide times visit tidetimes.org.uk. If you see someone in danger on or near cliffs, call 999 immediately and ask for the coastguard.”

Last week HM Coastguard advised people to keep dogs on a lead. If a dog falls down a cliff people should not go after them, but call 999 instead and ask for the Coastguard.

A wide section of the iconic chalk cliff at Seaford Head fell away in February this year. Demolition work also took place last year at the Birling Gap Café due to coastal erosion with the National Trust aiming to move its café and visitor centre to the rear of the building.