Huge Protest Against Sand ‘Stealing’ as Developer Accused of ‘Killing Nature’
Residents in Hayle protest against sand removal by developers, claiming it harms nature and the local environment
Hayle, Cornwall, Sand Removal, Protest, Environment
Hayle: Hundreds gathered on a beach to protest sand removal. They believe developers are stealing sand, harming the local environment. The anger is palpable in Hayle over sand being taken from the river and nearby areas.
Hayle Harbour Authority insists no illegal sand removal is happening. They say dredging is necessary to keep the port functional. Dredging prevents the port from silting up and becoming unusable.
The Hayle Harbour Act 1989 allows sand removal. Sand is taken from specific zones, dried, and sold for various uses. This includes soil conditioning and children’s play areas.
Dredging has been done for decades. In the past, sluicing was used to clear sand. Now, diggers and lorries handle the job. Dredging occurs during spring tides, which happen twice a month.
Residents worry that sand removal affects the entire St Ives Bay. They believe it impacts the beach from Godrevy to St Ives. Many locals and visitors oppose any sand being taken away.
On February 2, about 250 people protested. They carried banners with messages like “Save our Sand” and “Stop stealing Hayle sand.” Organizers say dredging is necessary, but it harms the beach.
Nick Reynolds, a protest organizer, noted the turnout was fantastic. He emphasized that taking sand degrades the beach. He believes all sand should be replenished to protect the area.
Reynolds suggested that developers should focus on building homes instead of selling sand. He believes the money from housing sales should fund river maintenance.
St Ives MP Andrew George attended the protest. He wants to ensure the law is followed and the environment is protected. A meeting with local officials and developers is scheduled to discuss the issue.