Residents in Hayle, Cornwall, are upset as diggers remove sand from the beach, sparking protests and concerns about environmental impacts.
Hayle: Concerns are rising about sand being taken from a beach in Cornwall. Residents and visitors are upset as diggers and lorries remove sand from the estuary. This issue was highlighted last summer, and people are sharing photos and videos on social media.
Members of a Facebook group called “Help Stop Hayle Sand Being Taken Away!” are posting images of the sand removal. Some worry this could happen to other beaches too. One local, Donna Bolton, expressed her fears about the future of other beaches.
Another resident, Adrian Crocker, called the situation “absolutely appalling.” An anonymous poster shared shocking images of Hayle beach and praised those raising awareness. Chris Dormer emphasized that the sand being taken is where families play.
SOS Cornwall voiced similar concerns. They stated that if the work continues, locals will protest until they get answers. They believe the dredging has already been done for navigational purposes, and there’s no need for more sand removal.
Hayle resident Sophie Daniels started a petition last August. She explained that the beach is suffering as tons of sand are removed for profit. She highlighted the negative effects on the environment and local wildlife.
Daniels stressed that Hayle Beach, a beautiful spot in Cornwall, deserves protection. She urged an immediate stop to sand mining, emphasizing the need to safeguard the ecosystem and community.
Opponents of sand removal are organizing a protest outside Gilbert’s Beach Bar. Councillor Peter Channon insists no one is stealing sand. He explained that the situation is complicated due to private ownership of the harbour.
Channon noted that dredging is necessary to keep the harbour operational. He mentioned that the cost of dredging is covered by selling the removed sand. It’s illegal for the Hayle Harbour Authority to dump the sand back into the bay.
He explained that dredging has changed over the years. Previously, it was done through sluicing, but now diggers and lorries are used. This is because no one in Cornwall has the right equipment for the job.
Channon clarified that the dredging is legal and regulated by the Hayle Harbour Act of 1989. The Hayle Town Council is aware of residents’ concerns and is in talks with various stakeholders to address the issue.
The town council assured residents that they are engaging with all relevant bodies. They plan to share more information soon. A spokesperson for the new administrators of Hayle North Quay confirmed that dredging is lawful and necessary for safe navigation.
They clarified that dredging only occurs in specified zones, not on the beach. The latest survey showed that some areas are shallower than before. Dredging is essential to maintain the harbour and ensure safe navigation for boats.
The Hayle Harbour Authority has issued a leaflet explaining the need for dredging. It states that the sand is used for various purposes, including soil conditioning and children’s play areas. Revenue from sand sales helps maintain the harbour.
Without regular dredging, navigation would become difficult and dangerous for vessels. The situation continues to evolve, and locals are eager for answers.
