Row over access to beach which has been fenced off (From Gazette)

Row over access to beach which has been fenced off

5:00pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(5)

A ROW has erupted over a section of beach that has been sectioned off to the public.

Dog walkers and visitors to the beach, off Kingland Close in West Mersea, say they are infuriated by a large section that has been cordoned off by a resident.

But council bosses say there is nothing they can do because the resident owns the stretch of beach.

Jim Wellard, 75, of Prince Albert Road, West Mersea, said he has become increasingly aggravated by the temporary fence, which he fears could pose a safety risk to walkers at night.

He said: “The council doesn’t seem to be able to grasp the nettle and take appropriate action. The fence is hazardous.

“There is a notice asking people not to walk along there because the area is being seeded, but the beach should not be obstructed in this way.

“It has upset a lot of people.”

David King, a neighbour of the landowner, said the fence is a temporary measure while grass is being seeded.

Mr King, 68, of Kingland Close, said: “It is in his garden and if he wants to fence it off he has every right.

“He is not fencing off a footpath. I personally don’t mind that he’s done it, and he is trying to plant new grass there to make it look nice.”

West Mersea town councillor Alan Mogridge said the council was sympathetic to the residents, but said it had no powers to take action.

He said: “We would rather the fencing wasn’t there and the whole beach was left open so it is a public beach for everyone to enjoy.

“There has been a public footpath across there for a very long time. However, while we sympathise with the residents it is up to a higher council to sort out.”

James Henderson, spokesman for Essex County Council, said: “The land concerned is private property and so does not obstruct a public right of way.

“Residents have been advised that they are able to apply to Essex County Council to request that it is considered as a public right of way.”

The landowner was unavailable for comment.

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(5)