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North Somerset Council has installed new fencing as part of a trial to protect the sand dunes at Weston.
Chestnut palling fencing is being used along the dunes on the beach between Royal Sands and Uphill in Weston-super-Mare.
The council is seeking to use the fencing to offset the damage caused to the dunes by walkers. Signs will also be erected to explain why walkers should not traverse the area.
It is hoped that the new measures will allow the dunes to recover by encouraging vegetation with deep roots to develop. It is also hoped to prevent additional sand from blowing away, give protection to local wildlife as well as making the area safer for visitors.
Commenting on the initiative, Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s executive member for climate, waste and sustainability, said: "These sand dunes form a key part of the Severn Estuary, a nationally important area which is special for wildlife. They are home to many birds, mammals and butterflies. Protection of the dunes in Weston-super-Mare is important as without active intervention, they will erode and parts of the town will not be protected from flooding, especially as sea levels are rising due to climate change.
“I’d like to thank people in advance for their cooperation while the fencing is installed. I’d also urge everyone to adhere to the signs and barriers in place, and to please not cross the fencing once in place. This is for your own safety as well as the protection of the sand dunes."
The sand dunes are located in North Somerset Council’s Uphill ward, which has two representatives, Councillors Peter Bryant and Helen Thornton. Reflecting on the measures they said : "The sand dunes are a special feature of Uphill and indeed Weston-super-Mare. We're delighted to see this trial taking place in an attempt to slow, or even stop, erosion which has many benefits, including improving the flood defence for the Uphill community. The fencing has been used elsewhere with great effect, so we're confident that it will be a success here too."
