Camber chaos
The car parks at Camber were quickly full at the weekend, with motorists ignoring parking restrictions and blocking roads. The Central car park was at capacity just after 9am, with the Western car park full before midday on Saturday, June 21.
The appeal of the hottest day of the year and a low tide bought the village to a standstill for much of the day, as hundreds of motorists ignored social media warnings to avoid the area.
The 100 bus service was severely disrupted, with two hours journeys to travel from Rye after motorists ignored bollards to park on roadside verges and on double yellow lines. Lengthy tailbacks were also reported through East Guldeford.
Four Civil Parking Officers issued a reported seventy tickets. A large number of tickets were also issued for non-payment in the council car parks – the fine is set at £35 whilst a six hour parking fee costs £30.
Council officials had anticipated thousands of visitors, with more resources put in place to work with the RNLI and Sussex Police. Twenty children were reported missing and quickly found.
Many residents commented on social media about experiencing inconsiderate parking on pavements, grassed areas and across driveways. Some described being met with abuse and threats. Huge amounts of litter were again reported as a problem.
Sunday, June 22 was also very busy with the car parks also full and more illegal parking on roads throughout the village.
With temperatures set to be even hotter this weekend, similar problems are expected.
Still the best
Congratulations to Dave Roder and the team at Rye Waterworks voted South East pub of the year by CAMRA – for the 9th time. The award, from the Campaign for Real Ale, was handed over on Tuesday, June 24.
Rye News will have a full report next week, but what makes Rye Waterworks so special? Leave a comment below.
Another winner
Well done also to Alice Doucy who has won the future leader award at the 1066 business awards 2025. Alice is customer services manager at Bournes Moves on Rye Harbour Road.
Receiving the award she said winning was a reflection on the team at the removal firm. “It’s been an exciting journey of growth and learning, made possible by the unwavering support of my colleagues. I’m especially grateful to Let’s Do Business Group, Bexhill College, and the judging panel for this recognition — and to Bournes for creating such a supportive and inspiring environment.”
A new store
A decision is expected soon on plans for the new convenience store on Winchelsea Road. Premier Stores has made an application to sell alcohol for 24 Winchelsea Road in a building that used to be a gym. It hopes to open an off-licence seven days a week from 7am until 11pm. Public comments to Rother District Council’s licencing team have now ended.
Work on Harbour Road
Part of Rye Harbour Road will be closed for two nights in July to allow East Sussex Highways to improve the road surface between the white gateway signs and the public toilets. The work is scheduled for 7pm – 7am on Monday, July 7 and Friday, July 11.
A spokesperson for East Sussex Highways said: “A layer of liquid bitumen is sprayed onto the road surface to seal it and provide a binder for stone chippings which are then spread on top. The road surface is then rolled to embed the chippings. If you need access, please approach the closure point and speak to the site team. There may be a slight delay while your vehicle is escorted by site marshals.”
Things to do
As always there’s plenty to do in and around Rye in the Rye News What’s On diary. Here’s one to look forward to next month.
Image Credits: Tristan Bruce , RDC , Kt bruce , Bournes , ESCC/Google .