Visitors urged to be wary of cliffs (From Tivyside Advertiser)

Visitors urged to be wary of cliffs

11:12am Wednesday 16th January 2013 in News

The extraordinary amount of water that has fallen on our coast this winter is prompting a safety warning to walkers and visitors to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

A recent landslip at Freshwater West beach in South Pembrokeshire was inspected today by the Park Authority’s National Trail Officer Dave MacLachlan.

This follows similar landslips that occurred near Solva in the north of the Park, and Manorbier and Freshwater East in the south.

Dave said: “The landslip at Freshwater West likely occurred as a direct result of the torrential rain but the beach is still accessible.

“Cliff falls of this kind are not uncommon but, due to heavy rainfall, the scale of recent problems has been unprecedented, and we would ask walkers and visitors attracted to our beautiful coast to take extra care near cliffs, especially around beaches.

“Cliffs at the back of beaches throughout Pembrokeshire can sometimes be unstable and prone to cliff and rock falls as they are actively being eroded by wave action and weathering.

“People should always be wary of walking or sitting on or under cliffs. Heavy rainfall has led to an increase in rainwater finding its way through soil and rocks, which in turn increases the risk of cliff falls and slumps.”

Temporary signage at Freshwater West warning of danger is in place and the Authority’s Area Warden Tim Jones will shortly begin constructing a new permanent route, with a temporary diversion for walkers and visitors now in place.

If you do encounter a landslip on the Pembrokeshire coast contact the National Park Authority on 0845 345 7275 during office hours; please call PCC on 01437 775522 after 5pm and weekends.

For further information regarding beach safety go to www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk.