Beach Check UK is a brand-new app, designed to allow users to check the status of a beach before they arrive, thereby avoiding overcrowded beaches, and, perhaps, saving Rye from the traditional summer queues that gridlock the roads to Camber.
The app uses a simple traffic light system allowing users to check the status of individual beaches. A map showing red means a beach is crowded, amber means less congested, and green, naturally, means grab your towels and get there before the light turns red.
Updated by on-the-ground authorised users, the app also includes information such as parking, if there is a lifeguard facility, or whether dogs are allowed.
The free app, available through both Google Play and Apple App Store, was designed by Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council. Piloted in summer 2020, it now has funding from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to roll out nationally. To date, it has been downloaded over 40,000 times.
The National Coastal Tourism Academy (NCTA) is supporting the roll-out of the app and encouraging resorts nationwide to adopt it. The app is currently available for Camber Sands, Bexhill, West Wittering, and Thanet in the southeast.
Samantha Richardson, NCTA director, said; “We have traditionally witnessed overcrowding on numerous hot-spot beaches around the country. This app allows users to plan ahead and travel to quieter areas.”
Beach Check UK has plans to sign up more coastal locations, and users are encouraged to contact their local authorities if they feel their area would benefit.
For more information: https://www.englandscoast.com/en/blog/beach-check-uk-app
