OK…lets be honest. Camber has, these last few years, had it rough. And yes, that is putting it mildly.
Not only has there been a continued lack of investment from Rother District Council, but the closure of Pontins and the effects of Covid-19 have built up to deliver a harsh outlook for the village.
Like it or loathe it, Camber relies on tourism all year round with visitors coming from far and wide to visit the village, and more importantly, its crown jewel – the beach.
It is no secret that the beach has been the victim of an environmental disaster. That may to some sound over-dramatic, but not according to the Environment Agency. They have classed the washing up of the bio-beads as a ‘top level’ situation for them, and have started criminal proceedings against Southern Water.
It has been well reported, both here at CCN, and in local and national news about Southern Water’s actions in late October that resulted in millions of out of date, hazardous bio-beads being washed ashore from as far west as Eastbourne and all the way east to Dungeness. This of course sadly includes Camber, Rye, and the Nature Reserve.
Wherever you get your news from, you will have probably heard about what has happened.
One of the side effects of the spill was that tourism was impacted almost immediately and continues to be so. If we are already seeing the signs of this now, what will the impact be in the summer months?
Unfortunately, it is a domino effect that will hit everyone who lives in Camber. Allow us to paint a picture…
Local businesses thrive on tourism. Pubs, restaurants, bars, newsagents, mini supermarkets, holiday lets, etc., so in fact, all the businesses you will find in Camber. If the level of tourism drops, so will the need for these establishments and businesses in the village. This could be devastating for so many people’s employment and for the villagers who will lose their amenities.
As the level of demand drops, so will the opening hours of the life-blood of Camber. Hospitality businesses will be on the front line, followed closely by the service sector including our newsagents and mini supermarkets as their reliance on tourism is just as essential.
In the worse case scenario, it might get to a point where you will not be able to buy a pint of milk or loaf of bread without having to get a bus, make a car journey or arrange a delivery.
However, that is the bad news. And with every bit of bad news, there is always hope and good news.
A group has been formed which is independent of the local authorities that is working hard to drive tourism back to Camber. Even though there are pollution warning signs as you head on to the beach, there is still a lot that Camber has to offer.
The “Love Local, Use Local” business group has been formed to promote and encourage tourism into Camber, while actively working with tourism boards, Southern Water and other bodies to support local businesses financially.
And yet, despite dealing with the mammoth companies, there is one group, above all, that will help turn the tide…You.
Whether you’re reading this on our website, in the newsletter, or via Social Media; whether you’re a resident, a holiday home owner, a business owner, or just visiting, Camber Sands needs your help.
By using as many local businesses as possible, you help maintain the lifeblood of the village. Whether it’s treating yourself to a meal at Harrys at The Gallivant, a ‘food-porn’ burger from Frankies At The Beach, getting a pint at the Owl, enjoying an evening at The Camber Castle, getting food from Rye Bay Cafe, Fish Me A Dish, Pelican, Antonio’s or Khanz, or buying a pint of milk from BJs, the village needs you to enjoy what it has, before it’s too late.
Supporting YOUR village is essential for its survival which is why, with exceptional thanks to CCN, the back cover of this months magazine has been designed for you to cut out and simply place in your window. It will let you show others that you care about Camber, and that you’re ready to support it.
There is also a copy at the bottom of this article that you can copy, download, print and display
Additional…
Since writing this article, two businesses have now received emergency funding to maintain the business.
It is with relief that Love Local, Use Local #lovecambersands is able to report that two popular establishments in Camber Sands have received an initial payment for financial support.
The Camber Castle and Khanz Camber have received a token £5000 to aid with their running costs after seeing a dramatic loss of business as a direct result of the bio-bead spillage last November by Southern Water.
It has been well documented that the pollution event that now blights Camber Sands has caused substantial loss in terms of local tourism and trade. While November through to March always signifies a quieter period, there is still a steady stream of people who come to Camber Sands to experience the breath-taking scenery along with sampling the delights of the village.
Southern Water, along with the two businesses, have confirmed that the payments were received today with the assurance that a deep rooted compensation payment would be worked on as soon as possible.
Both owners of the businesses have poured in additional private funds, along with creating promotions and events to aid their support.
We will be releasing more news via CCN but you can also support us on our social platforms:
www.facebook.com/cambersands/
www.instagram.com/lovecambersands
Thank you
#LOVECAMBERSANDS
LOVE LOCAL, USE LOCAL
Promoting Camber Sands Businesses
