A controversial move by Venice’s new mayor Giorgio Orsini could see the city’s exclusive Lido area made available to the general public. The sandy beach has formerly only been accessible to those who are prepared to pay and those staying in the area’s exclusive hotels. However, those days could soon be over if the island is opened up to the thousands of tourists visiting Venice each year.

The beach famously hosts the Venice Film Festival each year and has long been a peaceful hideaway for the wealthy who wish to separate themselves from ordinary people. It is a seven-mile strip of land,which protects Venice’s lagoon from being overwhelmed by the ocean.

The land became one of the first ever beach resorts in Europe and was initially developed as such in the 1850s. Some of its more famous hotels include the Hotel des Bains, which became well known around the world after the publication of the Thomas Mann novel, Death in Venice. A film was later produced of the same title which starred Dirk Bogarde.

The Westin Excelsior is another grand hotel frequented by the rich and famous. During the 1920s and 30s, the Lido became a popular place to enjoy the sun and sea with royalty and film stars. It was a favourite with such personages as the Duke of Windsor and actor Errol Flynn.

According to reports, Mr Orsini wants to limit the private beaches and the areas staked out by wooden beach cabins so that the public and tourists can also enjoy the area.