A UK beach that has been closed for nearly two decades could soon reopen to visitors. Newhaven West Beach in Sussex was closed to the public in 2008, after claims that it was "too dangerous". However, a new Bill backed by Parliament could allow people to visit the coastal spot again soon.

If the Bill passes, the beach, now owned by the French company Newhaven Port and Properties, will have to be provided with safe public walking routes with access permitted.

James MacCleary, local Liberal Democrat MP, said: "West Beach is not just a strip of sand. It is part of Newhaven's history, its identity and its community life.

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"For 17 years, local families - including my own - have been denied access to a beach where generations once swam, played and made memories. That cannot be right.

"My West Beach Bill is about fairness. It is about standing up for a community that has been shut out of its own seafront for far too long.

"Of course safety and harbour operations matter. But they cannot be used forever as a blanket excuse to keep people away from a much-loved public amenity.

"This is the first parliamentary bill that attempts to put the right of access to West Beach into law. It sends a clear message: Newhaven deserves its beach back. The Government must now adopt this Bill and make it Law".

There are also plans to transform Newhaven into a renowned seaside resort again. Last year, Newhaven Fort reopened following a £7.5 million revamp.

The work included an escape room and adventure playground. A splash park, playground, new restaurant, and outdoor gym are also planned for the seafront.