UK holidaymakers warned of hefty £1,000 fine for collecting certain souvenirs
With the summer holiday season fully underway, millions of Brits will be enjoying some well-earned rest, both in the UK and abroad. However, experts are keen to warn travellers of an innocent beach tradition which could land them in trouble.
Scotland has been engulfed in hot temperatures and humid heat this week, meaning many families will be heading straight for the nearest beach to enjoy some sun, sea and sand, but did you know that taking some cute seashells and pebbles home from the beach could land you with a hefty fine up to £1000
What seems like an innocent keepsake, whether a handful of sand or a pretty seashell, could actually carry serious consequences. Visitors naturally instinctively scour and collect souvenirs from the shore, such as a pebble picked up along the coastline, a scoop of soft sand, or a pretty shell found by the water's edge.
But taking these treasures home could violate environmental protection laws, and if caught, potentially lead to fines of up to £1,000, confiscation, and, in rare instances, prosecution.
Under the Coast Protection Act 1949, it is illegal to remove natural materials from Britain's coastline. The legislation applies to shells, stones, driftwood, and other items commonly found on the shore. Ultimately, it exists to protect fragile habitats and prevent long-term erosion.
Neil Atkinson, travel expert and owner of Luxury Group Stay, said: "The UK's coastline remains one of our most cherished national assets, drawing an increasing number of visitors opting for staycations close to a beach this summer.
'It's essential that holidaymakers understand how even small actions can have a significant impact. From many perspectives, taking shells or pebbles comes across as a harmless token to represent your trip, but these natural elements are vital for preserving our beaches and supporting local wildlife.
"There's a surge in staycations, especially to seaside spots, so respecting regulations is hugely important to safeguard these stunning environments for years to come. The threat of fines reflects the need for responsible tourism and sustainable enjoyment of our coastlines."
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In a recent reminder, Cumberland Council has warned visitors and residents alike to leave pebbles, shells, and sand on beaches or face fines up to £1,000 in line with the Coast Protection Act 1949.
This warning highlights increasing concerns over the impact of souvenir collecting on fragile coastal environments.
These materials are a vital part of the ecosystem. Empty shells often become homes for marine creatures such as hermit crabs, while pebbles and driftwood contribute to the natural defence of the coastline against the sea.
Removing them on a large scale, even unintentionally, can damage biodiversity and undermine coastal stability.
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