Slipways

Chichester District Council's slipways were originally created for coastal defence purposes however the council allows the launching of public vessels (excluding personal watercraft / jet skis) at three locations along the foreshore between Chichester and Pagham Harbours. Please observe the 8 knot speed limit within 300 metres of mean low water. Anybody found breaking this speed limit is liable to prosecution.

East Beach

In October 2011 Chichester District Council constructed a new slipway at East Beach, Selsey. It was funded through a pathfinder grant received from Defra and replaced an old ramp that due to shingle build-up became unusable. The new slipway is available for free public use (apart from Jetskis) throughout the year although trailers left in the car park must have a separate parking ticket. Please note that the gradient of the ramp steepens towards the seaward end so that vehicles do not have to drive too far in to the water, however vehicles may struggle for traction particularly two wheel drive cars, towing larger vessels, when the ramp is wet. You use the slipway at your own risk, we recommend that you have adequate help and if in any doubt consider using a strong rope connected between the trailer and the car.

Hillfield Road

The slipway at Hillfield Road car park in Selsey is often covered in shingle. It also has restricted access due to a "dog leg" which prevents larger vessels from launching. Small craft can be launched here but careful consideration must be given to tidal conditions due to the strong currents in this area. There are also various hazardous underwater reefs and banks just off the shoreline and we recommend a chart is consulted.

Bracklesham

The slipway at Bracklesham is often covered in shingle which prevents access during the winter. From April to September the Foreshore Service periodically clears the ramp and provides a launch and recovery service, subject to weather conditions and resource availability.

For safety reasons the public are requested not to use their own vehicle to launch or recover their vessel as even 4x4's will get stuck blocking the slipway for other users and potentially preventing the safety boats from being launched in an emergency. Please note that the Road Traffic Act 1988 prohibits the use of motorised vehicles on the beach and the Police may be called, the council has special permission from the Crown Estates to use the tractor and it's emergency vehicles.