A beach known for its "geological and archaeological wonders" is crumbling into the sea due to storms and rapid tides. Claims have been made that work carried out by the local authority to protect it is contributing to its demise.
Lleiniog beach, near Llangoed, Anglesey, lies off the Menai Strait and is considered an area of natural beauty but it is "rapidly eroding". In 2018, heavy machinery was used to pile up boulders dating back to the Ice Age.
It has been studied by scientists and academics in the subjects of geology, archaeology, marine biology and Roman and medieval history. As a result of erosion, the powerful tides of the Menai Strait, storms and easterlies, the coastal area is fighting for survival.
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At the carpark and picnic area, the edges are cracking, leaving wooden benches and tables closer to the deteriorating shoreline, despite extensive historic tidal defence work consisting of nets of rocks and large boulders. It is feared by locals that the area could eventually disappear altogether.
Gareth Phillips and a number of his friends are keen to protect the area, and have made impassioned pleas for the authorities to "do something". But he claims sea defence work, carried out by Anglesey council in 2018 to protect coastal properties, has speeded up the decline of the area.
Speaking to North Wales Live, Mr Phillips said: "Lleiniog beach is an absolute treasure it is the jewel in the crown of Ynys Môn. It is famed for its archaeological and geological wonders and it has suffered over the last few years. It had some appalling damage carried out by large earth moving machines on the apparent instructions of the council.
"We have had huge barriers built to protect newly built houses near the coast and we now have erosion at the carpark, which is an asset much appreciated by visitors and the community. We see the land is rapidly eroding, my plea is, please, please, the authorities that deal with care for these things, please look at and protect our heritage for now and evermore.
One local who wished to remain anonymous there had been "dramatic changes" to the area. "It looks completely different to a year ago, the edges of car park are gradually disappearing, each time I go down there more has gone, the beach looks completely different." Another passer-by said: "It is just shocking at how much it is changing in such a short time at Lleiniog."
Anglesey council and Natural Resources for Wales were approached for comment.
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