Barrow beauty spot to see new measures against antisocial driving
Shore access to be controlled at Sandy Gap in Walney
New restrictions are being brought in at a Barrow beauty spot due to antisocial drivers “damaging” the landscape.
The clampdown comes after numerous complaints about people camping and leaving waste behind at Sandy Gap in Walney, according to council officers.
If approved, Westmorland and Furness Council will put in a removable bollard to prevent motorists from accessing the shore area via Sandy Gap Lane, as well as signage.
The only exemption would be to allow authorised vehicles to do so.
It says its aim with the proposals is to “reduce unsuitable vehicular traffic, improve the environment, and provide a better area to live, work, and thrive in”.
The measures would come as part of an ‘experimental traffic regulation order’ (ETRO), meaning it would be put in place for six months.
This comes after a consulation with stakeholders in February.
Cllrs Frank Cassidy and Anita Husband, both of Walney Island ward, gave their support to the scheme, as did a representative of Westmorland and Furness Council’s waste service.
Westmorland and Furness Council’s ETRO document reads: “An experimental order allows the introduction of the restrictions on the ground to be assessed as to their effectiveness, and to enable people to comment and feedback on them whilst in operation.
“A six-month period for feedback commences once the restrictions are brought into operation.
“This is advertised to stakeholders, affected residents and businesses who may make representations as to whether the experimental order should be introduced on a permanent basis.”
It adds that, once the six month period has passed, all comments and feedback will be reported to the Furness Locality Board, which will then consider whether to make the restrictions permanent.
The report’s authors say the estimated costs of staff resources and advertising the order would be £1,500 and “any implementation measures” as a result are estimated at £2,000.
The Furness Locality Board will discuss the ‘prohibition of motor vehicles’ restriction next Wednesday, April 8