After various consultation exercises and interventions by BN, Waveney District Council and Suffolk Police are seeking to clarify the situation at the formerly "official" naturist beach at Corton Sands.

In a statement issued on 28th June 2010 the Council said:

"Although the beach is no longer designated specifically for naturist use, by-laws do not prohibit nude sun-bathing and it is not an illegal activity. However other activities - for example a man deliberately exposing himself, or other obscene acts - are illegal and police will continue to take action against anyone carrying out any activity which causes harassment, alarm or distress. This also includes anyone who is abusive towards naturists using the beach."

In the same press release, Superintendent Ian Sidney of Suffolk Police states:

“We have received several calls in the past few weeks and have attended the beach to investigate reports of inappropriate behaviour. However there is no law to prevent naturists using Corton beach and we would hope that all communities can respect the wishes and activities of others as long as they are reasonable.”

Councillor  Ken Sale, Waveney’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment said:

“The Council made a decision to remove the special designation for Corton Beach and it is no longer a stretch for the express use of naturists. However naturism itself is not illegal on any beach and it is now for all our communities to behave appropriately and with respect for others.”

This very welcome statement confirms the legal status of nude sunbathing and swimming at Corton and other beaches in the area, but also reminds beach users that they should behave properly and with respect for others. Naturists who witness inappropriate behaviour or suffer harassment should now be confident that they can report it to the relevant authorities.