On Sizewell Beach

We took advantage of the few days of good weather last week to go to the lovely beach at Sizewell.

Although in the vicinity of two nuclear power stations, this is one of the best places to walk on the Suffolk Coast in my opinion.  Always uncrowded, even at the height of the holiday season, it is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the beautiful coastline.  There is a good beach café for refreshments and a fair sized car park.

Somehow the beach and its surroundings, while not unaffected by the power stations, retain their tranquillity and atmosphere. The attractive shape of Sizewell 2, with its lovely white domed roof, is a positive part of this.  I am not so sure however that the area will remain unspoilt if and when Sizewell 3 comes along.  The proposed design of the new plant is ugly and obtrusive, and I understand that the contractor, EDF, has been unwilling to contemplate modifying this.  Additionally the plan for a residential campus for 3000 construction workers just inland from Minsmere Bird Sanctuary is unappealing.

Teresa May’s decision to suspend a decision on Hinkley Point may well mean that Sizewell 3 never happens, and for a number of reasons, not least the damage that its construction will bring to this remote and still beautiful area, it is difficult to be enthusiastic about it.

After our walk we had lunch at the Eel’s Foot Inn at Eastbridge, a few miles away.  This is a historic country pub that we like.   It serves good food and has a pleasant bar and garden.  There has been an Ale House in the area since the mid 16^th Century, and the current Inn dates from the late 17^th Century. More about the Inn can be found on its website HERE.

The Eels Foot Inn.