Fishing Boat and Traditional Net Huts Hastings East Sussex
Image details
Contributor:
Maurice Crooks / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
BKEMT7File size:
50.9 MB (2 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
4796 x 3707 px | 40.6 x 31.4 cm | 16 x 12.4 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
22 April 2010Location:
Hastings East Sussex England UKMore information:
The prominent net huts on the beach in Hastings Old Town are made of clinker weather boarding and stand an average of 25 feet high. These unique wooden buildings were originally used as workshops and storage for nets, sails and ropes. In 1934 the Borough Council restricted the area allowed for each net hut to eight square feet because of the limited space between the cliffs and the sea. To overcome this problem the fishermen built their equipment stores upwards to maximise the allowed space and constructed three stories, one above the other. About 45 of these unique structures can still be seen today and they are considered one of Hastings most famous and internationally known landmarks. Many more were originally built but have been destroyed by strong seas during the past 150 years. The council also demolished some during the 1950's to clear the beach area for development. With the advent of nylon nets there was less need for workshops and the buildings main use became storage. The remaining net huts are still used for this purpose today and are regularly maintained to withstand the elements.