Public to give views on how waters around Porthcawl Marina should be used

Members of the public are to be consulted on how the waters around Porthcawl Marina, the Eastern Breakwater and the nearby RNLI lifeguard station should be used in future.

Bridgend County Borough Council has agreed to ask people for their views on how local bylaws which date back to 1953 should be updated for modern use.

The bylaws will focus upon the area around the Eastern Breakwater which includes Porthcawl Marina, the inshore lifeguard station and both the ramp and steps which provide access to the water.

Councillor Richard Young, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “This is a busy, hugely popular part of Porthcawl, and it is vitally important to revisit the bylaws governing how it is used.

“In addition to featuring the main approach in and out of the marina and the launching area for the busiest inshore lifeguard station in Wales, the waters around this area also host activities such as fishing, sailing, powerboating, water skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, open water swimming, kayaking and more.

“The nearby breakwater also has a reputation for ‘tomb stoning’ where people leap from the wall into the water, often without realising that there is a concrete ramp hidden below the surface at high tide.

“As the current bylaws have been in place for 67 years, we need to bring them up to date and ensure that they reflect how the area is now used. We want members of the public to get involved with this, and will also be engaging with local organisations such as the RNLI, Coastwatch and more.

“This is about keeping people safe within a very busy marine environment, and ensuring that the bylaws match how the area is now used and can remain fit for purpose.”

• Details of the public consultation will be publicised in the New Year.