BCP Council is urging local people to take responsibility and Think Twice if they get to the beach and find it’s too busy.
With temperatures set to rise over the Bank Holiday weekend more local people are expected to visit the beach.
In partnership with other public services across Dorset, the Council has increased its targeted messaging to those outside of the area to ‘Think Twice’ and not to visit for now.
In addition to this BCP Council is calling on local residents to Think Twice if the beach becomes too busy.
Councillor Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council, said; “The lifting of restrictions nationally has meant people can travel to the beach. We made the conscious decision to open our seafront facilities including car parks for local people to use. Not all residents have the luxury of being able to walk to the beach and so it’s important we provide these facilities so that our local residents can access the public spaces they enjoy.
“With the favourable weather conditions set to continue this Bank Holiday weekend we are appealing to residents to please Think Twice if they arrive at the seafront and find it’s too busy. We understand people are keen to get to the beach but the message is simple – if you get to the beach and it’s too busy then please head home. The beach will still be here for you to enjoy at other times.”
Government guidelines indicate that leaving your home – the place you live – to stay at another property for a holiday or other purpose is not permitted. Hotels in the area remain closed and camping overnight in car parks is not allowed.
Some toilets along the seafront will be open and residents are advised to carry their own wipes and hand sanitisers.
Beach hut tenants have been advised to keep the promenade clear and place tables and chairs on the beach to maintain access for other beach users.
Catering outlets providing a takeaway service including private businesses have also been advised to keep the promenade clear of any seating.
Enhanced signage is in place advising beach users to keep to the two-metre social distancing, and seafront teams will continue to patrol the promenade. People can expect to see an increase in Seafront Rangers as we enter the summer season.
The Council will continue to monitor the beach use throughout the weekend.
