Latest news with #CoastProtectionAct
The Sun
5 days ago
- The Sun
Families could face a £1,000 fine for ‘innocent' beach ‘mistake' this summer
HOLIDAYMAKERS could face fines of up to £1,000 this summer for the seemingly innocent act of taking pebbles, shells or sand from beaches Visitors who take beach 'souvenirs' home with them risk breaking the law under the Coast Protection Act 1949. 2 What may seem like a harmless keepsake, a smooth stone, a scoop of soft sand, or a shell from the shoreline, is actually protected by law. Removing these items can lead to fines, confiscation, and, in rare cases, prosecution. Why the rules exist? The law applies to the whole UK coastline and covers shells, stones, driftwood and other natural materials. It was introduced to protect delicate marine habitats and to stop the gradual erosion of our beaches. These natural defences play a vital role in protecting wildlife and shielding coastal areas from storm damage. Empty shells are often taken over by creatures such as hermit crabs, while pebbles help break the force of waves hitting the shore. Even small amounts taken by millions of visitors each year can add up to a significant loss. Experts warn that once these natural buffers are gone, they can take decades to return — if they return at all. With more Britons than ever opting for seaside staycations this summer, environmental pressure is growing. Research shows nearly 69 per cent are holidaying in the UK this year, rising to over three-quarters among 25-44-year-olds. Popular beach spots include Weymouth, Brighton, Sandbanks, and Durdle Door. Woman fined £1,600 after visiting 'hidden gem' pink beach during European holiday 'it's not JUST a shell' 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." Authorities say they're not trying to spoil people's fun, but to ensure future generations can enjoy the same pristine beaches. They urge visitors to take only photographs and leave only footprints. 2
Daily Mirror
02-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Tourists on UK beaches warned of habit that could land them £1,000 fine
Brits heading to beaches this summer may want to double check the local rules and guidelines - or they could face hefty fees for an easy mistake Brits planning a staycation this summer will want to take note of one habit that could land them with a £1,000 fine. When heading to the beach, it doesn't seem uncommon to pick up a shell or pebble to take home as a memento; but this seemingly harmless habit actually can have ramifications on an area's eco-system, not to mention you could inadvertently be breaking the law. In fact, the Coast Protection Act 1949 makes it illegal to remove natural materials from beaches, with the law aiming to protect coastal environments by preventing erosion and preserving natural habitats. It's not just pebbles and sand - the law covers any kind of natural materials taken from public beaches. (It's worth noting that the Coast Protection Act applies to beaches across England and Wales only - Scotland has its own version.) Eco experts at Arbtech have warned that pebbles and sand play an important part in a beach's natural defence against erosion, absorbing wave energy which protects cliffs, dunes, and inland areas. They add that beach materials such as shells or driftwood can also provide microhabitats for wildlife, so taking these materials can directly disturb local ecosystems. Andrew Ward from Arbtech said: "What may seem like a harmless holiday keepsake is, in fact, part of a delicate and vital ecosystem, and could even cost you a fine of up to £1,000. One person taking a pebble or shell may not seem like much, but when thousands of visitors are doing the same, it can have drastic impacts on the coastal environment. "Over time we could start to see increased erosion, the loss of natural sea defences, and disruption to habitats that many species rely on. The law is clear and it's not just there to spoil any fun. It's a reminder that beaches are protected for a reason. We all have a role to play in preserving the environment so that it can continue to thrive for generations to come." More often than not, beaches will have clear signs warning visitors against removing the pebbles and sands, and there have been reports in previous years of tourists being ordered to return pebbles to the beach, or face receiving a fine, even after they have left the coast. It's not the first time that tourists have been warned when it comes to rocks or pebbles in tourist hotspots. In recent years there's been increasing calls for visitors to stop 'rock stacking', especially in national parks. Rock stacks, or cairns, can be found on many of the highest peaks across the nation, and have become a popular activity for hikers. While rock stacking is seen by some as an art form, others have slammed the practice as just being an excuse for someone to take a photo for their social media feeds. Meanwhile, environmental campaigners have warned that moving rocks from their spot on a beach or in the countryside can have a knock-on ecological effect, such as accidentally destroying a nest or home of local wildlife.
