Swimmers urged to avoid Porthcawl breakwater while work is underway

Members of the public are being warned to keep away from Porthcawl’s Western Breakwater this summer due to the additional dangers presented by submerged materials that are being used during construction works to strengthen the breakwater.

Signage has been installed advising of the dangers present in the area and fencing has been erected to restrict access to the iconic Western Breakwater while work continues on a £6.4m scheme that will defend homes and businesses in Porthcawl from flooding.

Anyone that would ordinarily have used this area for recreational purposes have been urged to keep away due to the dangers posed by the construction site, including scaffolding, rocks and other hazards which may be submerged at high tide.

Construction specialists Knights Brown are currently working on renovating and refurbishing the 19^th century breakwater to ensure it can continue to stand up to the tides and tough maritime weather.

Bridgend County Borough Council is also reminding people how to stay safe while enjoying the coastline in the area this summer.

Advice includes avoiding diving or jumping from structures, swimming in areas with strong currents, and swimming after drinking alcohol or consuming food. More tips and advice about staying safe in the water can be found on the Council’s website.

We urge people to keep away from the Porthcawl breakwater while construction work is underway. As well as the usual risks a construction site poses, there are also dangerous construction materials present at the site which may be hidden from view at high tide.

We want to ensure that all those who travel to Porthcawl to enjoy its waters and coastline every year take sensible precautions to look after themselves, protect others and ensure that everyone can enjoy the area safely.

Councillor Stuart Baldwin, Cabinet Member for Communities