Whipsiderry Cliffs Steps in Newquay Face Prolonged Closure: Community Outraged

Images: Save Whipsiderry Cliffs 

A Drastic Six-Month Closure

In a move that has left the local community bewildered and frustrated, Cornwall Council has issued a Temporary Prohibition Of Traffic Notice for the steps at Whipsiderry (Newquay), effectively closing off public access for an astounding six months. The closure is set to extend until July 13, 2024, sparking outrage among those who cherish this picturesque coastal spot.

Excessive Duration Raises Concerns

The decision to close off the steps for such an extended period has ignited controversy. Advocates for the preservation of Whipsiderry Cliffs are questioning the necessity of this move, citing several key points:

Unaffected by Recent Cliff Falls

A significant point of contention revolves around the fact that the recent cliff falls have not impacted the steps themselves. The closure appears unrelated to the safety of the steps, raising questions about its true motive.

No Official Statement of Unsafety

Crucially, neither Cornwall Council nor Cormac, the council’s highways contractor, have officially declared the steps as unsafe. This omission further perplexes the community.

Alternative Access Routes and Tidal Risks

While the public can still access the beach through other routes, the closed steps increase the risk of tidal cut-off, a concern highlighted in Cornwall Council’s own report. This contradiction adds to the community’s bewilderment.

Discrepancies with Other Beach Access Points

The closure of Whipsiderry’s main access point stands in stark contrast to other coastal areas facing similar erosion issues. Beaches like Mawgan Porth, Porth, Chapel Porth, and Widemouth have all witnessed recent cliff falls without enduring the closure of their primary access routes.

Challenges in Ensuring Public Safety

Cornwall Council faces the challenge of guaranteeing public safety along an eroding coastline. Their approach primarily involves adequate signage to inform the public of the inherent risks.

Community Action and Call for Transparency

Frustrated and bewildered by this six-month closure, the Whipsiderry Cliffs preservation advocates are taking action. They plan to voice their concerns and seek clarification from Cornwall Council and Cormac regarding the reasons and justification behind the lengthy closure. The community is urged to join in this effort and share their concerns.

Uncertain Response from Cornwall Council

Past correspondence with Cornwall Council has left advocates with little confidence in receiving an adequate response. The extended closure, in their view, aligns with a perceived reluctance by the council to proactively address the issue.

As the community rallies to challenge the unprecedented closure of Whipsiderry Cliffs steps, the preservation of this breathtaking coastal gem hangs in the balance.

Article written based on the information provided on the Save Whipsiderry Cliffs Facebook page.