PROPOSALS for a £10 toll to access Beachy Head and Eastbourne’s Downlands have been thrown out after Eastbourne Borough Council confirmed it does not support the proposal, following widespread criticism and the launch of a petition by local councillors.
Contained within a Liberal Democrat policy discussion paper on the creation of a “Seven Sisters Clean Air Zone”, suggested a pilot scheme in Spring 2026, with full implementation in Summer 2026. It would have seen non-residents paying a £10 access fee, while Eastbourne residents received limited free passes.
However, the council moved quickly to distance itself from the idea after a backlash from residents, businesses and political opponents.
The clarification follows a campaign led by Conservative Councillor David Small, who launched a petition opposing what he called an ‘ideologically driven’ plan that would ‘price out ordinary families and devastate local tourism businesses’.
Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde also moved to reassure residents, saying he had made his position clear to the council:
He said: “I’ve made it clear to Eastbourne Borough Council that I do not support that. We definitely need to tackle air pollution and anti-social driving around Beachy Head but this is not the way. There are loads of other things we should instead push for to address these issues – traffic calming measures, speed cameras, improving public transport, and increasing electric car charging points across town, to name a few.”
The controversial policy document described the proposed toll as part of a ‘compassion-first’ environmental strategy, stating: “The Seven Sisters Clean Air Zone (SSCAZ) is a compassion-first policy, rooted in environmental justice, emotional wellbeing, and civic responsibility. Through sensitive implementation and transparent public engagement, this plan aims to transform Beachy Head into a safer, more sustainable, and emotionally supported landscape for future generations.”
While the council has confirmed the toll will not go ahead, a public consultation on air quality is set to begin soon with residents being encouraged to share their views on tackling issues such as speeding and anti-social driving on Beachy Head.
Councillor Small’s petition, meanwhile, remains open and has gathered significant support from residents concerned about potential future access charges.
