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Walking on sand dunes can cause erosion. This work, organised and funded by North Somerset Council, is part of a trial to see whether chestnut paling fencing will help to strengthen and stabilize the sand dunes. It is hoped that this will encourage vegetation with deep roots, help to stop sand from blowing or washing away, benefit wildlife and improve safety for visitors.
Signs will be installed at either end of the fencing to explain why the fencing is there, the wildlife benefits of the dunes and asking people not to cross it.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s executive member for climate, waste and sustainability, said: “These sand dunes form a key part of the Severn Estuary, a nationally important area which is special for wildlife. They are home to many birds, mammals and butterflies. Protection of the dunes in Weston-super-Mare is important as without active intervention, they will erode and parts of the town will not be protected from flooding, especially as sea levels are rising due to climate change.
“I’d like to thank people in advance for their cooperation while the fencing is installed. I’d also urge everyone to adhere to the signs and barriers in place, and to please not cross the fencing once in place. This is for your own safety as well as the protection of the sand dunes.”
The sand dunes are located in North Somerset Council’s Uphill ward, which has two representatives, Councillors Peter Bryant and Helen Thornton. They added: “The sand dunes are a special feature of Uphill and indeed Weston-super-Mare. We’re delighted to see this trial taking place in an attempt to slow, or even stop, erosion which has many benefits, including improving the flood defence for the Uphill community. The fencing has been used elsewhere with great effect, so we’re confident that it will be a success here too.”
For more information about the Severn Estuary and the fencing trial visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/severnestuary.