PHC Sand Dune Statement
Statement from Padstow Harbour Commissioners 12th February 2021
The Padstow Harbour Commissioners have received concerns from members of the public with regard to the recent dune erosion at Brea Hill.
PHC share the same concerns. The area of erosion is creating a narrowing of the channel, causing a hazard to navigation and increased speeds of tide.
We have been monitoring the area for some time and the recent, relentless inclement weather has caused further deterioration.
Some concerns have enquired into the effects of the navigable dredging and is this the cause of the dune erosion.
Last year, PHC employed Ecospan, an external hydrographic survey company, to conduct a thorough and extensive survey of the estuary at great expense. The survey was conducted to understand the possible effects of dredging on the estuary and the findings are to be publicised and promulgated amongst our stake holders and port users.
As with most, Covid-19 has delayed the process, however we hope to receive the finalised document very soon and will provide information on our website for the release of the survey results.
In the meantime, we have contacted the Duchy who are the landowner of the dunes and have asked for an inspection of the area to identify the cause of the erosion and to provide solutions to implement mitigation to reduce and/or stop further deterioration.
Whilst we continue to investigate the area of contention, we thank you in advance for your patience.
Padstow Harbour Commissioners.