MOD to study effects of erosion on beach around Ballykinlar camp

MOD to study effects of erosion on beach around Ballykinlar camp

20 April 2016

THE Ministry of Defence is to carry out a major survey of the effects of tidal erosion on the coastline surrounding Ballykinlar army camp.

The shoreline from Newcastle to Tyrella has been changing considerably in recent years with sand being stripped from certain areas and deposited on other beaches. There has been considerable erosion of the sand dunes on Murlough beach, especially in winter storms in recent years, while large amounts of sand have been deposited on parts of Ballykinlar beach.

Now the MoD is to examine the impact on the long section of coastline which surrounds Ballykinlar, from its border with Tyrella right into Dundrum inner bay.

An MoD spokesman said as custodians of a very important part of an Area of Special Scientific Interest “it’s only right and proper it undertakes all measures to best understand and protect against the environment for Ballykinlar and Northern Ireland.”

The spokesman said the forthcoming survey will be carried out in co-operation with the MoD’s partner agencies in the area, adding: “It’s important we have information on how best to protect and care for what we are responsible for and to share with all other agencies.”

Welcoming news of the MoD survey, South Down MP Margaret Ritchie is keen for the military to join forces with two other organisations as part of a major review of the impact erosion is having on the South Down coastline.

The MP plans to contact the MoD to ask it to work alongside Newry, Mourne and Down Council and the East Border Region organisation which are planning their own erosion surveys. Miss Ritchie believes it would make sense for all three organisations to work together to provide an “over-arching review of the impact of erosion.”

The MP explained the local council and the East Border Region — which works to ensure balanced and sustainable development on a cross-border basis — are currently preparing a significant review into coastal erosion across South Down, with specific reference to the impact of weathering, erosion, storms and tidal surges on the coastal landscape.

“Given the Ministry of Defence’s intended work in this area, it is imperative it works with the local council and East Border Region in areas of mutual co-operation,” she continued. “Coastal erosion has a considerable impact on the cost of local farming and both the tourist and residential economy.”

Miss Ritchie said South Down is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, along the coast of Ardglass, Ballyhornan, Bright, Murlough, Ballymartin and Annalong to name but a few.

The MP added: “It is imperative that measures are taken to stop beach and coastal erosion to ensure the continuation of tourism trade and amenities. With three organisations planning to carry out erosion surveys, it would make sense for them to work together with their combined results providing a comprehensive overview of the current situation.”