Birling Gap staircase to re-open after cliff fall

The Birling Gap staircase is scheduled to re-open this summer.

Wealden District Council announced the plans on 11 March 2026, following the completion of an investigative survey. The staircase has been closed for approximately two months after a significant cliff fall in late January 2026 damaged the structure and trapped multiple visitors on the beach. 

Re-opening Details:-

• Timeline: The council aims to have the beach accessible for the summer season.
• Next Steps: Fabrication of structural elements will begin soon, followed by an installation process expected to take several weeks.
• Collaboration: The project involves stakeholders including The National Trust, The Coastguard, and the RNLI to ensure safety and operational support for emergency services. 

Context of the Closure

The staircase was initially closed on 27 January 2026 after debris from a cliff fall, exacerbated by Storm Chandra, damaged the access steps. HM Coastguard had to rescue nine people and a dog who were stranded on the shoreline. 

Visitors are reminded that while the staircase is being repaired, they should continue to stay well away from the cliff edges and the base of the cliffs due to ongoing instability. For the latest updates before your visit, check the National Trust Birling Gap beach access page