British beachgoers urged to avoid dangerous beaches
31st July 2012
After a 22-year old woman was killed in a landslide near Bridport, West Dorset last week, beachgoers are being urged to be extra careful around cliffs
Although the sun may have emerged, visitors to Britain's beaches are being warned against walking under cliffs, especially in the West Dorset area. Visitors are being told to avoid beaches with a cliff backdrop, especially those between Lyme Regis and West Bexington, due to the potential for further landslides.
The coastal clifftop path has temporary been closed for safety assessments after the accident last week. The West Dorset council urged members of the public to keep an eye out for warning signs for their own safety.
This specific area has been designated a World Heritage Site due to its constant erosion, where landslips and rockfalls are common. However, the recent amount of rainfall has destabilised areas of the cliffs, increasing the chance of landslides, mudslides and rock falls.
The advice given is to stay well away from the cliffs and mudflows, and to watch out for quicksand. Visitors should also be aware of the tides, which can cut off the normal exit points to and from beaches. Warning signs have been put up along the coast, and additional public notices are being prepared for tourist information centres.
Landslides can deliver thick mudflows and quicksand to beaches; the sea can wash sand and shingle over these, giving the appearance of a solid beach.
Jurassic Coast is the council website for the Dorset coastline. Sam Rose, Jurassic Coast Team Leader at Dorset County Council, said: “We would urge people to avoid the cliffs and mudslides and to heed the warning signs along the coast. There are still many great beaches and walks that are not affected.
“People must be aware of their surroundings and follow the safety signs.”
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