KENNEBUNKPORT (AP) — A judge has upheld the public’s right to use Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, saying the public established that right by its longtime use.

In siding with the town, Superior Court Judge G. Arthur Brennan said it had shown the public had continuously used the beach for at least 100 years.

The ruling comes after a 2009 suit by beachfront property owners, who claimed beach ownership to the low water mark and said the public had no right to cross it.

Town manager Larry Mead called the decision “a great victory” ensuring the beach can be enjoyed by future generations.

Plaintiff Robert Almeder said the case will be appealed to Maine’s highest court. He said the town is trying to take the property in front of their homes for nothing and commercialize the beach.