Cumberland Council is reminding residents and visitors to leave pebbles or shells on beaches that they might visit, or they could be fined up to £1000.
The Coast Protection Act states that in the UK, it is unlawful to take any natural materials like sand, shells and pebbles from the beach, no matter the amount. This law is in place to protect the natural environment and can be enforced by Cumberland Council and result in a fine of up to £1000.
Cumberland Council is dedicated to protecting the environment and stresses that leaving pebbles and shells on the beach contributes to climate efforts. To support this, the council is developing its first climate and nature strategy. Residents are encouraged to participate in a brief online survey, which will only take about five minutes. The survey closes on Monday 20 May at noon.
Cumberland Councillor Bob Kelly, Executive Member for Cumberland Policy and Regulatory Services, said:
“I understand people’s reluctance to follow this guidance, as I have been a collector of shells myself. But taking a pebble or a shell from a beach, can in fact damage the environment.
“Pebbles and other natural matter act as a natural sea defence against coastal erosion, natural flood defences and wildlife habitats which many experts warn has become even more of an issue due to climate change.
“We are asking people to leave the pebbles, shells and sand as we all want to ensure that our beaches remain vibrant and intact for future generations.”