Sun brings problems as beaches attract visitors

Sun brings problems as beaches attract visitors

26 July 2017

PARKING at some of Lecale’s picturesque beaches is starting to become a problem for local residents.

As more and more people start to visit beaches at areas such as Kilclief and Ballyhornan, car parks are being overwhelmed leaving visitors to park on the narrow country roads.

Now a local politician has urged visitors to show common sense when parking and to consider driving on to a different beach in the area.

“If you arrive at Kilclief or Ballyhornan beach and find the car-park full — drive on and you will be pleasantly surprised with what you discover,” said councillor Cadogan Enright.

“There are dozens of beautiful  local beaches little known to visitors from Belfast that locals can enjoy,” he added. 

“When you pass Kilclief and Cafferty’s you pass little several little used beaches as you you make your way down to the lay-by at Mill Quarter Beach. The Killard Nature Reserve also has a lovely beach reached by a beautiful scenic walk past the old radar station buildings.

“Going on past Ballyhornan to Dunsford or Chapel town you can walk from the renowned Curran’s Bar and Restaurant down to the Holy Well on the beach at Sheepland.”

Councillor Enright said Ardglass and Killough offer alternatives although he warned Coney Island has barely enough parking for local people.

“Past the wild-life beaches of Rossglass and Minerstown you have the council-managed blue-flag beach at Tyrella, and between there and the other blue-flag beach at Murlough you have Ballykinlar Beach which is open more often now that the military are not there as often. 

“Use common-sense. If you have a jet-ski, then avoid Minerstown or Rossglass — you have 18 other beaches to choose from. 

“You can access the water with your car directly at Strangford, Ballyhornan and Killough with no need to crush the birds nests or scare the mother seals away from their pups on the wild life beaches. Never drive on wildlife beaches and keep dogs on a lead — or your may be prosecuted. Don’t walk closer than 200 meters to seal colonies with young pups.”

“Lets enjoy lovely Lecale, but be considerate of coastal residents and wildlife,” he said.