Motorists using a particular coastal car park will not have to pay fees for the time being as ownership transfers take place.

The Southwick Beach car park, which Adur District Council is transferring to the Shoreham Port Authority, currently has no parking fees while the transaction is finalised.

An Adur District Council representative stated that no charges are currently in place at the site.

The parking area is included in a broader land deal with the port authority, encompassing the shoreline, walkway, conveniences, beach structures, and additional amenities.

The transaction, announced in October, also involves Carat’s Café, which operates independently under a long-standing rental contract.

Shoreham Port Authority has indicated that fees will be applied once the sale concludes, matching the parking arrangements across its wider holdings.

A Shoreham Port representative stated that the organisation is delighted to confirm the purchase of the Southwick Beach car park from Adur District Council is progressing, though a completion date remains unconfirmed. From the completion date, Shoreham Port will manage the car park alongside its existing estate, with cashless payment options and suitable signage being introduced. Further details will be shared on their website when available.

The district council previously stated it did not have sufficient resources to invest adequately in existing facilities or guarantee future protection of the coastline.

Shoreham Port already controls most of the beach along Basin Road South and manages coastal protection in that section.

The port previously committed to keeping the beach open to the public after worries emerged that access might be restricted.