What is the National Trust's plan for the Cuckmere Valley?

The National Trust plans to create five breaches in Chyngton Brook to allow fields to flood and restore 42 hectares of salt marshes and mud flats in the Cuckmere Valley.

Why are some Cuckmere Valley residents concerned about the plan?

Some locals are worried the project could increase flooding issues in villages further upstream, where the Cuckmere River's mouth has long been prone to shingle and mud buildup.

How does the National Trust respond to the flooding concerns?

The National Trust says its modeling shows the project will actually lower water levels upstream and improve how water flows out to sea, though some residents remain skeptical of the potential impacts.

Home / Environment / Coastal Controversy: Locals Raise Concerns Over Planned Wetland Restoration in Cuckmere Valley

Coastal Controversy: Locals Raise Concerns Over Planned Wetland Restoration in Cuckmere Valley

5 Nov

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Summary

National Trust proposes creating breaches in Chyngton Brook to restore 42 hectares of salt marshes and mud flats
Locals worry about increased flooding upstream due to the project
Concerns over two well-used paths becoming inaccessible

Coastal Controversy: Locals Raise Concerns Over Planned Wetland Restoration in Cuckmere Valley

As of November 5th, 2025, the National Trust's proposal to restore 42 hectares of salt marshes and mud flats in the Cuckmere Valley has faced pushback from some local residents. The plan involves creating five breaches in Chyngton Brook to allow fields to flood, with the aim of improving biodiversity and river flow.

However, villages further upstream have long dealt with flooding issues due to shingle and mud collecting at the mouth of the Cuckmere River. Some locals are concerned the National Trust's project could exacerbate these problems by altering the river's flow. Nick Giles, vice chair of Cuckmere Valley Parish Council, stated that there is "a lot of local concern" as the proposal is "a bit of an experiment" with uncertain consequences.