A proprietor of a beach hut is urging local authorities to intervene following a rise in vandalism and thefts at the structures.
Chris Roche has held ownership of his beach hut close to Hove Beach Park for a period of three years.
Over recent months, Roche has documented a surge in antisocial conduct, with multiple beach huts suffering break-ins and acts of vandalism, including his own property. He indicated that he is among several individuals who experience repeated targeting. Representatives of the Beach Hut Association have observed certain break-in incidents taking place.
The situation has proved distressing for those affected. Within the preceding three days, approximately twenty beach huts had been spray-painted with graffiti, extending from Hove Lagoon through to Rockwater.
Roche expressed support for the newly opened skate park, which commenced operations in September 2024, but indicated he holds a strong conviction that the rise in criminal activity stems from this development. He noted that since the skate park became operational, there has been a corresponding increase in break-in incidents. He clarified that his position does not reflect any animosity towards the skate park itself. He maintains that the facility represents an excellent addition to the area. However, he pointed out that when establishing a venue likely to draw two hundred teenagers daily, those responsible should acknowledge the potential risks involved. He emphasised that steps must be taken to address this issue.
Roche filed a report with police regarding a recent break-in. He has also raised the matter with Brighton and Hove City Council, pressing for intervention.
Roche suggested that council representatives should implement preventive measures, potentially including surveillance cameras, or alternatively restricting operating hours to daylight only. He explained that he reached out to the council leader and included one councillor who committed to investigating the situation. He put forward proposals for installing CCTV equipment and upgrading illumination along the seafront walkway in an effort to minimise instances of antisocial behaviour.
Andrei Czolak, serving as cabinet advisor for community safety at Brighton and Hove City Council, acknowledged awareness of recent damage to beach huts and graffiti in the vicinity of the skate park, expressing genuine sympathy for anyone subjected to such experiences. Similar problems have additionally been reported recently along other sections of the seafront. The council will maintain communication with Sussex Police to intensify collaborative efforts in addressing this matter. Substantial street lighting and CCTV infrastructure is already operational, covering the promenade in western Hove. Hove Beach Park also maintains nighttime illumination and comprehensive CCTV surveillance.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police reported that on March 5, officers received notification that a beach hut in Hove had sustained damage and that items had been removed from inside. No individuals have currently been identified as suspects. The local police community support officer has convened with the local councillor and the chairperson of the Beach Hut Committee to discuss persistent concerns, and additional patrols will be deployed throughout the area. The force urges members of the public to report antisocial behaviour, damage, or theft involving beach huts to enable effective targeting of patrols. The force will additionally collaborate with the committee to determine further crime reduction strategies. Anyone with information about the incident or relevant CCTV recordings from the area is requested to submit a report through the online portal or telephone 101, referencing catalogue number 47260044151.