Milford-on-Sea beach huts to be finally removed by council

A total of 31 damaged and at-risk beach huts will be removed from Hordle Cliff on June 10 after half a mile of huts were battered by Storm Kathleen in April. 

New Forest District Council said the damage to the huts can be blamed on beach erosion and ground movement following winter storms which has now meant the plots are no longer viable. 

Steve Cook, NFDC’s coastal service manager, said: “We have actively engaged with hut owners and the New Forest Beach Hut Owners Association, and have every sympathy with those who have experienced impacts at this very challenging coastal area.

“The removal of the huts is a challenging operation, made more difficult by the limited beach access and tidal working. We hope to complete the works before the end of June and reopen the beach for residents and visitors to enjoy in the summer months.

“We advise anyone considering buying a beach hut or other asset on, or close to, the coast to consider the risk before purchasing. People are welcome to contact our coastal team to understand the risks.” 

Should weather permit it, land-based machinery will undertake the removal with Paddy's Gap car park to remain open but access restricted as the work is undertaken. 

Beach huts from Holdle Cliff to The White House had been left in a sorry state following the storms with debris left across the length of the beach with worries of litter and risk to health and safety due to several rusty nails. 

The loss of the huts had left residents upset with fears the huts would not be allowed to return following the damage. 

Days after her beach hut was destroyed, Jeannie Medd, said: "I think now, because there's so much erosion and the tide is coming so much higher up that there's not really the space for them to be built. There's not enough beach left. 

"I know a lot of people are very upset but it almost makes it easier to accept if the council say, it's not safe, we're clearing the whole area."