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In an affluent beach town south of England lies a 12-meter fence causing a divide among its residents. The fence has sparked a fiery debate between locals who frequent the area year-round, with some feeling their right to roam freely has been curtailed, while others assert their ownership rights over the land. The issue has deeply divided the community, prompting heated discussions and conflicting viewpoints regarding access to the beach.
Residents of Sandbanks, a renowned seaside resort town, have raised concerns about the erection of a wooden fence on a stretch of beach earlier this year. This contentious move has elicited strong emotions from those who have long enjoyed the sandy shores. Suzanne McGowan, a local resident since 1992, staunchly believes that no one should claim ownership over the sand, as it is a natural public right of way. The fence’s presence has restricted access to the beach, leading to confrontations between homeowners and residents who feel their freedom to roam has been infringed upon.
Fanny Thomas, who has traversed the area for decades, expressed frustration at the restrictions placed on beach access. Walking her dog on the beach one night, she encountered security measures that made her feel unwelcome. Many longtime residents, like Sue Draper and Lesley Barratt, are dismayed by the sudden changes that have disrupted their daily routines. The tranquility of the beach, ideal for dog walking and relaxation, has been marred by the looming fence and warnings of prosecution for trespassing.
As tensions escalate, Norman Allenby-Smith, chairman of the Sandbanks Community Group, is striving to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The group, comprising 650 members, is exploring legal options to address the issue before it sets a precedent for similar disputes in the future. The matter of shoreline ownership and public access rights remains under scrutiny, with calls for legislation to safeguard historical access to coastal areas. The intricate ownership structures and lack of robust statutory rights of access have underscored the need for clarity and protection of public spaces like the foreshore
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