Cuckmere estuary abandoned

The estuary valley of the River Cuckmere is to become permanently flooded by the sea, in plans announced by the Environment Agency. The valley is one of the area's most well-known beauty spots, and has long been a popular film location, appearing in Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, Doctor Who, Atonement and Green Wing, amongst many others. However, as part of a nationwide economic review of coastal defences, the Environment Agency has concluded that the Cuckmere's current sea defences are unviable for continued maintenance. As a result, the sea will be allowed to naturally reclaim 260 acres of the distinctive river valley, a process that may be complete within 15 years. Full details of the area's Strategic Environmental Assessment may be downloaded from the Environment agency's website here .

(Photo: English Nature)