Tourist warning as huge sinkhole appears on popular UK beach
Visitors have been warned that recent bad weather has made part of the promenade "unsafe for pedestrians".
Visitors have been warned to avoid a section of the promenade in one of the UK's prettiest seaside towns after a huge sinkhole was discovered. The stretch of Norfolk coastline in Hunstanton, nicknamed 'Sunny Hunny' thanks to the sunshine its west-facing location affords it, was fenced off by local officials on Thursday, February 5.
Councillor Sandra Squire said: "Recent bad weather and coastal flooding have accelerated deterioration in part of the Hunstanton Promenade. While there is currently no impact on local businesses or residents, a section has become unsafe for our pedestrians and must be repaired urgently."
The cabinet member for environment at the borough council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk said a geotechnical report had highlighted "substantial" repairs needed on the promenade, with more "extensive intervention" to be launched in the near future. The stretch of beachside walkway between the Oasis and the Waterside Bar in the coastal town will remain shut until further notice, the local authority added.
Read more: Hidden gem beach with three miles of golden sand and castles at each end
Read more: UK's 'lost seaside resort' devastated locals were forced to abandon
Cllr Squire said: "These sea defences are nearing the end of their serviceable life [and] we are now undertaking emergency repairs. Public safety remains our top priority. We ask visitors to follow the guidance, avoid fenced-off areas and stay away [from] the ongoing works.
"These emergency measures are only a temporary fix. This incident further strengthens our case to national government that Hunstanton's sea defences - including the promenade deck - require significant investment, and soon."
Hunstanton was named one of the UK's prettiest seaside towns by Time Out last year, thanks to its scenic coastline - which is the only place in east England where you can see the sun both rise and set - and attractions including its Heritage Gardens and retail and hospitality scene.
The beach also marks the start of the Norfolk Coast Path, which stretches from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea, spanning 83 miles through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Recent visitors have praised its impressive 800-metre stretch of flat, sandy beach on TripAdvisor, describing it as "perfect for dogs" and "lovely strolls [in the] late evening".
The coastline received a Seaside Award from environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy in 2021 and frequently features in run-downs of the best beaches in the UK.
"Hunstanton beach and the stroll to the promenade is wonderful," one holidaymaker said. "The awards won are well-deserved as this area is well-maintained and a credit to the council."
