Christchurch Beaches
and Hinterland
Management Plan
2008 - 2018
Contents
RECORD OF AMENDMENTS
MISSION STATEMENT
1
WHERE ARE WE NOW? ..............................................................................6
1.1
Why have a management plan? .................................................................6
1.2
Characteristics of the beaches ...................................................................7
1.3
How are the Beaches managed? ............................................................. 13
1.4
Leisure, sport and recreation policies ....................................................... 13
1.5
Coast protection ....................................................................................... 16
1.6
Planning policies ...................................................................................... 18
1.7
Tourism and marketing ............................................................................. 20
1.8
Environment and conservation ................................................................. 21
1.9
Sustainability ............................................................................................ 23
1.10
Travel and access .................................................................................... 24
1.11
Health and safety ..................................................................................... 25
1.12
Supporting infrastructure .......................................................................... 28
1.13
Commercial activities ............................................................................... 30
1.14
Community involvement ........................................................................... 31
1.15
Management controls ............................................................................... 32
2
WHERE DO WE WANT TO GET TO? ........................................................ 34
2.1
Vision........................................................................................................ 34
2.2
Objectives................................................................................................. 34
2.3
Policy context ........................................................................................... 35
3
3.2
4
HOW WILL WE GET THERE? .................................................................... 38
Action plan................................................................................................ 39
BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................... 44
4.1
Documents ............................................................................................... 44
4.2
Organisations ........................................................................................... 45
5
ACRONYMS ................................................................................................ 46
6
APPENDIX................................................................................................... 47
TABLES
Table 1: Car parks serving Christchurch Beaches. ........................................................ 29
Table 2: Byelaws at Christchurch Beaches .................................................................... 32
FIGURES
Figure 1: Boundary of Management Plan. ........................................................................ 7
Figure 3: Beach Segregation Scheme. .......................................................................... 47
Figure 2: Nature designations within and adjacent to CBHMP area. .............................. 48
Record of amendments
Our site management plans are thoroughly reviewed every five years. Amendments
may be needed in addition to the regular review to reflect changes in council, national or
international policy. This ensures our management plans remain up-to-date and reflect
the work we undertake at each site.
Amendment
Date adopted Section
by council
Number
Date
Removed 20 pages of
information pulled directly
from Local Plan as
information too detailed.
Adjusted planning policy
section to reflect Borough
Character Assessment
and transition from Local
Plan to new Local Plan.
-
Following 2014 03/09/07
review
assigned to 1.4
Successful application of
Olympic pre-games
training camp
-
Following 2014 07/03/08
review
assigned 3.2
Completed
projects
Gundimore Access
Improvements
-
Following 2014 14/08/09
review
assigned to
3.2 Completed
projects
RNLI lifeguards
-
Following 2014 14/08/09
review
assigned to 1.4
bathing
Updated Beach
Segregation Scheme to
include Gundimore as
watersports area
-
Following 2014 18/09/09
review
assigned to 1.4
Updated Tree Work Policy
info.
-
Following 2014 30/10/09
review
assigned to
1.8.2
Added policy information
from Tree Strategy
regarding trees/vegetation
on the cliff face/coastal
environment
Harbour and coastal
-
Following 2014 04/03/11
review
assigned to
1.8.2
Community
1.13.2
03/12/13
foreshore assets – future
policy and practice
Review History
Initially adopted April 2008
Reviewed August 2009
Reviewed June 2014
Services
Committee
22 May 2013
Minute 19
1
Where are we now?
This first section introduces the beach area and explains the purpose of this
management plan. It describes the facilities and physical features of the area and
explains the way in which we manage and maintain the site.
1.1
Why have a management plan?
Christchurch Beaches and Hinterland Management Plan is designed to aid efficient and
effective management of the site. It has been developed in consultation with the local
community, local recreation groups and local businesses.
The process of management planning helps us to challenge what we already do and to
develop a clear sense of direction for the future. The plan includes an Action Plan with
specific tasks to help improve management of the Beaches.
There is an inter-relationship between this and other site management plans.
Beach Area adjoins neighbouring sites which have their own management plans:




The
Mudeford Sandbank
Steamer Point Nature Reserve
Mudeford Quay
Christchurch Harbour (voluntary management plan produced by partners
with a responsibility within the Harbour)
1.1.1 Using this document
Within this document Christchurch Beaches and Hinterland Management Plan is
abbreviated to CBHMP. The terms ‘Beach Area’ and ‘beaches’ refer to the beaches and
associated hinterland.
The titles of documents referred to in this management plan are written in bold, grey
italics and the details (including a website link) of each document can be found in the
bibliography.
1.1.2 Contacting the council
If you wish to contact the council about any issue arising at the beaches please use the
following details:
One Stop Shop
Civic Offices
Bridge Street
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23 1AZ
Main phone line: 01202 495000
SMS mobile number: 07781 480191
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.dorsetforyou.com
6
1.2
Characteristics of the beaches
The Beach Area lies to the east of Christchurch and covers an area of approximately
8.75 hectares. The beaches are an important asset for the Borough as they are popular
with both residents and visitors. The beaches form a continuous stretch of sand and
shingle from Mudeford Quay round to Chewton Bunny. The adjacent areas of hinterland
compliment the beaches by providing large areas of public open space suitable for a
variety of activities.
The area covered by the management plan generally follows the cliff line, except where
there is an area of open space, and extends 247 metres out to sea from the mean low
water mark. Figure 1 shows the extent of the Beach Area, the location of each beach
and associated public open space and the position of car parks serving the area.
Figure 1: Boundary of Management Plan.
The Beach Area is divided into five compartments each with its own unique character
and setting, from West to East they are:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
Gundimore
Avon Beach
Friars Cliff Beach (and Hinterland)
Highcliffe Castle Beach
Highcliffe Beach (and Hinterland)
7
1.2.1 Site description
Gundimore
Gundimore is the short stretch of beach connecting the eastern end of Mudeford Quay
with the car park at the western end of Avon Beach. Gundimore Promenade, a dualuse cycling and pedestrian tarmac walkway, stretches the length of the beach, as does a
concrete sea wall. The beach itself is a mixture of sand and shingle. There are 11
beach huts.
Gundimore is a water sports area but is not suitable for bathing due to its close proximity
to the dangerous currents at the harbour mouth.
There are no services or commercial activities at this beach apart from a mobile ice
cream concession. Life lines and dog waste and litter bins are provided.
Avon Beach
The popular, sand and shingle beach at Avon Beach stretches from the eastern end of
Gundimore Promenade to the sharp turn in the promenade at the end of the line of
green beach huts in the east. It is one of Christchurch’s most commercial beaches with
facilities including a café, shop, public toilets and car park.
The whole site is leased to the Avon Beach Limited who run all on-site facilities, apart
from car parking, and the council therefore has little operational involvement. The beach
huts are available to hire from Avon Beach Limited.
Avon Beach is designated a bathing beach except for the section in front of the car park
which is allocated for watersports. RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach during July and
August.
Friars Cliff Beach (and Hinterland)
Like Avon Beach, Friars Cliff is an intensively used stretch of coastline. The sand and
shingle beach is backed by a wheelchair accessible promenade which is lined with 147
beach huts. The site is serviced with potable water standpipes, litter-bins, dog waste
bins, life lines, café and public toilets (disabled toilets are located in the café and be
accessed via a ramp).
To the land-ward side there is an area of public open space which can be used for
events as defined in the Use of Open Spaces Policy. To the eastern end of this area a
large, round, concrete plinth marks the former site of a ‘radome’ used for
communications development during World War II.
The eastern end of Friars Cliff Beach is marked by the eastern end of a 1940s reinforced
concrete wave wall which rises 2.5 to 3 metres above beach level (depending on
seasonal fluctuations in beach material). The wall marks the watersports area as it is
clearly visible from the sea. The remaining area of the beach is a bathing beach. RNLI
lifeguards patrol the beach during July and August.
8
Highcliffe Castle Beach
Highcliffe Castle Beach extends from the eastern end of the wave wall to the start of the
rock groynes at Highcliffe. The beach comprises mainly shingle with some areas of
sand but the composition varies with wave action and tide height. The beach is much
more rural than its neighbours; the vegetated cliffs and lack of commercial activity
providing a natural setting. The beach is a designated bathing area.
Extensive views of the Solent and Needles can be enjoyed from the cliff top at Highcliffe
Castle. A wheelchair accessible zigzag path descends from here to the beach. The
beach can also be reached from Steamer Point Nature Reserve by two flights of steps.
There are few services on the beach itself other than dog waste and litter bins, life lines
and a concession for mobile catering which extends from the bottom of the zigzag to
Groyne H5. However, public toilets, a café and car parking are located in the grounds of
the Castle. The Castle is a popular visitor attraction and often holds exhibitions.
Highcliffe Beach (and Hinterland)
The coastline at Highcliffe varies from the extensively engineered cliffs and groyne
system in the east to soft, low cliffs in the west which have only been subject to a
minimal level of protection. The beach can be reached by following a series of slopes
and paths, although there are steps on some routes. The beach is a mixture of shingle
and sand and a designated bathing beach apart from the section between groyne H8
and H10 which is reserved for watersports.
Chewton Bunny marks the eastern boundary of the beach and the Borough. An area of
open space forms the southern section of the Bunny. The northern, wooded portion is a
nature reserve managed by Christchurch Countryside Service.
There is a large car park and area of public open space in an area known as Highcliffe
Cliff Top which is adjacent to Wharncliffe Road. A café and public toilets are also
situated on the cliff top. Mobile catering units from the café operate between Chewton
Bunny and groyne H5. There are also litter bins and dog waste bins and life lines.
Sites adjacent to the Beach Area
The high amenity and environmental value of sites abutting the CBHMP area add to the
appeal of Christchurch’s beaches. Steamer Point Woodland, Mudeford Quay and the
northern section of Chewton Bunny are managed by the council. At present only
Steamer Point and Mudeford Quay have their own site management plans.
Steamer Point is a 24 acre cliff top Local Nature Reserve (LNR) that is situated between
Highcliffe Castle and Friars Cliff. It comprises woodland and aquatic habitats and
supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Information Centre at Steamer Point
provides extensive information regarding Christchurch's countryside and also
incorporates an interactive display for children. The centre is the home of Christchurch
Countryside Service and many of the countryside events in Christchurch are based at or
originate here.
9
Mudeford Quay is situated at the north of Christchurch Harbour and is an elongated
piece of land that extends out and almost meets Mudeford Sandbank. The site is
important for sea fishing and recreational sailing.
Chewton Bunny is located at the eastern end of Christchurch Borough adjacent to
Highcliffe Beach. It comprises an area of open space (which is covered by the CBHMP)
and a northern wooded area designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI)
which is managed by Christchurch Countryside Services.
Christchurch Coastal Route
Previously it was difficult, if not impossible to have walked the Christchurch Coast within
sight of the sea. Over the past thirty years the council has gradually brought a large
amount of land into public ownership, opening up large amenity areas, improving coastal
defences and providing access to beaches and cliffs. Following the acquisition of the
last section of private cliffs by the Council in 2004, Christchurch Coastal Route was
completed. It is now possible to walk the full length of the Christchurch Coastline along
the clifftop and a network of established formal promenades and paths. The majority of
the route can also be cycled, with some on-road links or dismounting being required to
negotiate footway-only stretches at Friars Cliff. Over half the Coastal Route is
wheelchair friendly all year round. The most recent addition to the path is the Zigzag
access path at Highcliffe Castle which comprises a series of gentle zigzag slopes which
afford wheelchair access to the beach.
1.2.2 History
Taking the sea air, sea-bathing and consequently beach facilities stem initially from
George, Prince of Wales and Prince Regent’s penchant for sea bathing in Brighton.
Enjoying seaside pleasures continued and gained wider acceptance during his reign as
George IV. This continued in the Victorian era when such activities became fashionable.
Unlike our continental neighbours, British culture has grown to expect free unrestricted
beaches (very few are commercially managed) and free unrestricted access to the sea.
Consequently, beaches now form a very vital part of the country’s public open space
‘bank.’
Recent history has added to the Borough’s stock of beaches as coast protection work
has formed beaches at Gundimore and Highcliffe where, beforehand, the sea lapped at
concrete walls and cliff bottoms.
Relatively recently there has been a huge increase in recreational activity on the water,
bringing with it its own conflicts and problems. The council responded by providing
controls to protect the environment and beach users.
10
1.2.3 Site details
Site name:
Christchurch Beaches and Hinterland
Ward:
Mudeford and Friars Cliff
Highcliffe
National grid
reference:
SZ 200 929
Area:
8.75 hectares
Bordered by:
Mudeford Quay, Sandhills caravan park, residential
properties, Steamer Point Nature Reserve, Highcliffe Castle
and the open sea
Land tenure:
Christchurch Borough Council owns the beaches under a part
leasehold part freehold agreement
Landscape:
Shingle and sand beaches backed by areas of grassed, open
space
Facilities:
Shingle and sand beaches
Grass areas
Beach huts
Cafés/restaurant
Shop
Toilets (including disabled)
Water standpipes
Cycle parking
Litter and dog waste bins
Life-saving throw lines
RNLI lifeguards at Friars, Avon and Highcliffe beaches during
July and August
Uses:
Informal and passive recreation
Water-based activities
Access
Foot – Christchurch Coastal Path and Gundimore Promenade
Bicycle – cycle racks at all beaches
Car parks at Mudeford Quay, Avon Beach, Avon Run Road,
Southcliffe Road, Steamer Point, Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe
Cliff Top.
By Bus –Wilts and Dorset Buses X1 & X2 stop on Lymington
Road in Highcliffe and Bure Lane, Mudeford in Mudeford and
Stanpit in Stanpit.
11
1.2.4 Ownership
Christchurch Borough Council owns the beaches leasehold and the freeholder is
Meyrick Estates (lease expires 2061). There are leases and agreements with operators
of leisure service providers throughout the CBHMP area.
1.2.5 Covenants
The beach area is covered by a number of covenants:

Part of the beach is subject to covenants contained in a conveyance dated
19 November 1959. The covenant stipulates:
1. not to erect any building upon the said land except for the erection of
beach huts on the beach area.
2. not to permit any persons to sleep in any hut erected on the land, unless
sanitary facilities are provided
3. Not to permit trading apart from the letting of beach huts and sites for
beach huts

Land to the east of Waterford Road (part of Chewton Bunny) is subject to
covenants contained in conveyances dated 20 December 1948 and 15
November 1911. There may not be anyone who could now enforce these
covenants which stipulate that:
1. No hut, tent, booth, caravan, intended for use as a dwelling should be
erected or any show, swing or roundabout allowed on the land without
consent from the Vendor.
2. The land shall not be used for any purpose other than garden ground
meadow land nursery or orchard land until built upon
3. No trees can be cut down for building purposes
4. No alcoholic drink shall be drunk and sold on the premises
5. Access to the land for the maintenance of water pipes and such like will
be granted
1.2.6 Legal status
The beaches themselves are classified as public open space. The council has statutory
powers under the Public Health Acts and the Local Government Act 1972 to manage
and maintain this land. The most important of these statutory powers are:

To allow the use of the land for a limited number of days in any year by a
public institution or for an agricultural, horticultural or other show or any other
public purpose and to charge for admission.
12

Power to provide chairs, seats, reading rooms, pavilions and other buildings
and conveniences and refreshment rooms and apparatus for games and
recreation.

Wide powers to provide entertainments and associated facilities and to set
aside parts of open space for the purpose and to charge for such use.
The area covered by CBHMP is covered by a number of byelaws (see section 1.15.1).
1.3
How are the Beaches managed?
Effective on-site management is essential to ensure the area is maintained to a high
standard. The different uses of the Beaches sometimes conflict and we aim to manage
this, working with others to ensure the area remains enjoyable for all.
The nature and setting of the Beaches create a welcoming and pleasant place to be.
The natural beauty of the site and the stunning views instantly put visitors at ease. The
beach area has offers much in terms of the simple pleasures of being outdoors. The
Beaches provide:






An oasis for relaxation and reflection
A space for being active and healthy
A space for people to meet with friends and family
A space for informal recreation and play
A space for learning and stimulating the senses
A space to connect with wildlife and the natural environment
The way in which we manage the Beach area aims to maintain the character of the area
whilst providing facilities and support for the leisure activities that the area
accommodates. The Beaches at Avon, Friars Cliff and Highcliffe hold the Seaside
Award.
ACTION: Re-apply for the Seaside Award for Avon, Friars Cliff and Highcliffe Beaches.
The following sections outline the way in which we work to ensure the Beaches are a
welcoming, safe and enjoyable place for all who visit.
1.4
Leisure, sport and recreation policies
The beaches and associated green spaces (Chewton Bunny, Friars Cliff Hinterland, and
Highcliffe Cliff Top) provide a large area for leisure and recreation. The Beaches are
maintained and managed sustainably in order to protect the nature of the beaches.
The area is inspected on a regular basis to ensure it remains safe for all users.
The principal leisure and recreation policies relevant to the Beach Area are listed briefly
below.
13
Bathing
Swimming and other water-based activities are popular at the beaches. A voluntary
beach segregation scheme aims to reduce conflict between swimmers and other water
users.
Bathing areas
Water sports areas



Avon Beach and Friars Cliff (in front of
the beach huts)
Highcliffe Castle and Highcliffe
(between the eastern end of the Wave
Wall and Groyne H8)


Avon Beach (in front of the car park)
and extending westwards to include
Gundimore up to groyne M1
Friars Cliff Beach (in front of the wave
wall)
Highcliffe between groynes H8 and H10
Figure 1 in the Appendix shows details of the scheme.
There is an RNLI lifeguard service at Friars Cliff, Avon Beach and Highcliffe Beach (at
the bottom of the zigzag) operating fulltime during July and August.
Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) national standardised beach signage highlights
safety issues relevant to each beach. These signs were installed following a full audit
and recommendations carried out by the RNLI in 2009.
On the rare occasion that the Mudeford RNLI Inshore Lifeboat is unable to be retrieved
via the Harbour, RNLI personnel and their tractor are permitted to use Gundimore
Promenade to access Avon Beach in order to bring the boat back to its headquarters on
Mudeford Quay. The RNLI Stationmaster holds a key for these gates.
Beach huts
There are beach huts at Friars Cliff Beach, Gundimore Beach and Avon Beach. Those
at Avon Beach are managed by Avon Beach Limited under the terms of their lease.
The 147 huts at Friars Cliff are privately owned and placed on sites licensed by the
council. Licences are subject to various conditions including payment of an annual
license fee. When ownership of a hut is transferred from one party to another, a transfer
fee is payable to the council by the hut owner. Fees and charges are reviewed annually
by members of the council.
There are 11 beach huts at Gundimore Beach which are also licenced by the council.
There are also beach huts on Mudeford Sandbank; their management is covered in the
management plan for the Sandbank.
ACTION: Introduce online administration for beach hut licencing.
14
Watersports
Certain areas of the beaches are designated for watersports through the voluntary
beach segregation scheme (see Figure 2 in the Appendix).
Patrol boat
The council’s Marine Patrol Boat operates every weekend from Easter until the end of
September, with everyday patrols occurring during the peak period of July and August.
Although the primary duty of the boat is for byelaw enforcement, it actually carries out a
wide range of tasks and plays an important public relations role for the council, offering
guidance to residents and visitors alike on local marine issues. It is not, however, a
rescue boat.
Control of personal watercraft
The council operates a voluntary registration scheme for personal watercraft to allow
users to enjoy their sport without the conflicts that can arise between personal watercraft
users and others both in and off the water. Members of the scheme can benefit from
reduced slipway charges. The requirements of the scheme are as follows:





Annual registration fee
Data tagging
Third Party Insurance to the value of at least £1,000,000
Display of registration permit
Agreement to abide by the code of practice
Mooring of private boats
Generally all tidal water is subject to public right of navigation and this includes the right
to anchor for a reasonable time (i.e. to wait for high tide). However, this right does not
extend to permanent mooring and the causing of an obstruction.
The council has a duty of care to allow temporary landing facilities for distressed vessels
including disembarking crew/passengers at risk in emergencies. The public landing
area at Mudeford Quay meets the needs of this requirement.
Watercraft speed limits
A speed limit of 8 knots is in operation between the shore and the buoys located 247
metres out to sea. From the entrance to the run and within the harbour the speed is
restricted to 4 knots.
Metal detecting
It is council policy not to allow the use of metal detectors on our beaches. Any
excavations made may be in breach of both local byelaws (number 16 Seashores and
promenades) and statutory environmental designations (such as a Site of Nature
Conservation Interest).
15
Discovered items remain the rightful property of their owner and therefore members of
the public finding items are duty bound to hand them in to either the Police or, if it is
council property, the council.
Seats
The council operates an ‘Adopt a Seat’ scheme whereby members of the public can
dedicate a seat to a loved one. Adoption lasts for a period of ten years and preference
of location is taken into account.
Cafés/restaurants
There are three food outlets at the beaches: The Beach Hut Café at Friars Cliff, The
Noisy Lobster at Avon Beach and The Cliff Hanger in Highcliffe. Three mobile food
outlets, predominantly selling ice creams, operate at Gundimore, Highcliffe and
Highcliffe Castle Beach.
Refer to section 1.13.1 for details of the leases.
Events
We view all of our open spaces as public assets for local residents and visitors to enjoy
and so we allow (subject to certain conditions and stipulated by licence) events and
community activities to take place on these areas. Certain restrictions apply to ensure a
balance is achieved between hosting events and allowing visitors to enjoy the site as it
is. Restrictions specify the permissible frequency and duration of events as well as the
type of events that can be accommodated.
The Use of Open Spaces Policy document identifies the primary uses of the beach
areas as walking, sunbathing, swimming, ball games and cycling. It also explains the
various requirements expected of event organisers.
1.5
Coast protection
Sustainability of the Christchurch coastline is important for the protection of the local
environment, property and also as a means of maintaining the beaches as an amenity to
be enjoyed.
In England, the Department of Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has a national policy
responsibility for flood and coastal erosion risk management (FCERM). They set the
policy aims, objectives and targets for the risk management authorities. FCERM is
carried out by risk management authorities (RMA) working together in partnership. In
Christchurch, these authorities are the Environment Agency (EA), Dorset County
Council (as Lead Local Flood Authority and Highway Authority), Christchurch Borough
Council and Wessex Water plc.
The Borough Council provides a ‘non-statutory’ service to protect people from flooding
and erosion by undertaking maintenance and repairs to coastal protection assets that
are consistent with the rate of deterioration caused by material, physical and
environmental factors. Capital projects to enhance coast protection may be carried out in
16
the future through the use of FCERM grant in aid funding, as described in the Poole &
Christchurch Bays Shoreline Management Plan (2010), Christchurch Bay FCERM
Strategy (2012) and Defra guidelines.
ACTION: Carry out coastal recovery and repair works at Highcliffe Beach and
Avon/Gundimore Beach following winter storms.
ACTION: Carry out beach replenishment from Gundimore to Steamer Point following
winter storms.
Coastal Erosion Risk Management
Christchurch Borough Council is a Coast Protection Authority as defined by the Coast
Protection Act 1949. As defined in the Act the council is under a statutory duty to carry
out major new or replacement schemes to ensure the coastline is protected. These
measures take the form of hard (sea walls, rock armour or groynes) or soft (dunes,
marshes and beach replenishment) engineering works. Routine maintenance and
general husbandry of the coast is a non-statutory local function. The Act makes no
specific provisions for amenity or conservation works and is confined solely to defence.
Other regulations and European Directives ensure that environmental considerations
play a major part in the design and construction of any new scheme or maintenance
works.
Prior to any coastal defence work an environmental impact assessment is carried out to
identify sensitive areas to be avoided and protected during the works. The results are
submitted to Natural England who monitors the situation throughout the works.
ACTION: Use appropriate coast protection measures to maintain the current
environment at the beaches.
ACTION: Replace timber groynes with rock armoured groynes at Avon and Friars Cliff
beaches.
Flood Risk Management
The Environment Agency (EA) has a strategic role for all matters relating to flood risk
management and includes both river and tidal flooding issues. RMAs such as
Christchurch Borough Council do not have power to undertake flood risk management
works themselves. They must first seek Flood Defence approval for potential works from
the EA.
Shoreline Management Plans
A Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) is a document which sets out a general strategy
for coastal defence taking account of natural coastal processes and human and other
environmental influences and needs. It is intended to provide a strategic framework for
the management of coastal defences along the coastline in the future and a basis upon
which future informed decision making and policy setting can be made. They are nonstatutory. They inform RMAs and help them develop future management strategies for
the coastline.
17
The coast of Christchurch is covered by Poole and Christchurch Bays SMP2 which was
adopted in 2010. It sets out the current strategy for management of flooding and coastal
erosion risk between Durlston Head in Dorset and Hurst Spit in Hampshire, including
Poole and Christchurch Harbours. It is known in national SMP terms as Subcell 5f and
is sub-divided into a number of ‘Policy/Management Units’.
The plan outlines how best to manage each section of the coast with one of the following
defence options:




No active intervention (do nothing)- meaning no investment will be made
in coastal defences or other operations other than for safety purposes
Hold the existing line- keeping the line of defence as it is by maintaining
existing defences or changing the standard of protection
Advance the line- the building of new defences on the seaward side of
existing defences
Managed realignment- allowing natural physical processes to act on a
stretch of shoreline, with management to control or limit that movement
Presently concrete walls, revetments, timber and rock groynes extend along the
Christchurch shoreline from Mudeford Quay to Chewton Bunny, apart from the area
fronting Highcliffe Castle which is undefended. The SMP2 advocates a ‘Hold the
Existing Line’ strategy for the coastal frontage in Christchurch. This approach provides
defence for all developed land along the shoreline in the short and long-term and
because of joint working, the SMP2 also outlines coordinating coastal defence strategy
for areas adjacent to the CBHMP area such as Naish and Mudeford
Sandbank/Hengistbury Head.
1.6
Planning policies
CBHMP area is covered by a number of designations which affect potential development
in the area. The cliffs from Chewton Bunny in the East to just west of Steamer Point are
designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the geological
importance of the Barton Strata. Mudeford Conservation Area extends from Mudeford
Quay and includes part of Avon Beach. A section of Chewton Bunny falls within the
Green belt.
The Beach Area also falls within the coastal zone. Development within the coastal zone
is constrained by a number of criteria, including not prejudicing access to the beach or
water and ensuring that the natural environment and character of the area is respected.
The Borough-wide Character Assessment and the Local Plan outline current planning
policy which impacts upon the Beaches.
1.6.1 Character Assessment
Christchurch Beaches are a unique environmental asset and form an important part of
the overall identity of the Borough. The cliff top treescape and degree of protection give
this section of coast its own character distinct from neighbouring areas.
18
The Character Assessment identifies the most important characteristics which give the
borough its unique and distinctive character, sense of place and identity. It provides
guidance on the capacity of each area to accommodate new development or other forms
of environmental change. It advises on the characteristics that new development would
need to successfully integrate with its location.
The Character Assessment identifies the following key characteristics of the beach area:

Expansive sweeping bay divided into local beach areas by different
approaches to coastal protection and beach management

Areas may vary between low key sandy beaches and sections of shingle
beach divided by heavily engineered ‘fish tail’ stone groynes

Beach frontage benefits from low ‘cliff’ backdrop that provides strong natural
feature and separates beach from development

Treescape along cliff tops reinforces the separation of beach and hinterland
and forms a key feature of the coastline

Where development is seen it is generally low key, but well maintained
residential development set within or behind tree cover

Seafront parking areas of varied attractiveness, but generally modest scale
and not dominant to beach frontage

Seafront facilities such as kiosks, toilets and beach huts also thinly spread
and subservient to natural setting of the coastline
The Character Assessment provides the following guidance regarding development of
the Beach Area:
As a dynamic environment the coastal frontage is highly sensitive to change. The
existing coastal protection work will have a controlling influence over the process of
coastal erosion. At the same time these features bring a clear human influence to the
beach frontage. In this regard the area should be seen as sensitive to further
engineering that may tip the balance between a natural or urbanised seafront.
In a similar vein the character of the beaches are protected by the dominant fringe of
tree cover along the cliff tops. This feature is again sensitive to change in coastal
management or conditions.
1.6.2 Local Plan
The new Local Plan was adopted on 28 April 2014. The beach area is covered by the
following Local Plan zones which have an impact in terms of planning and development
and recognise the importance of various aspects of the beaches:
19
Open Space
We recognise the importance of providing sufficient open space and facilities for
recreational pursuits. The beaches and areas of open space are designated as a public
open space.
Christchurch Coastal Zone
We will ensure that appropriate access to the water is maintained and that the natural
environment and character of the area is respected.
Flood Zone
The beach frontage falls within the flood zone and is at risk from a 1 in 200 year event.
Green Belt
A section of Chewton Bunny is subject to certain development controls due to its
location within the green belt which protects the area's visual amenity.
Conservation status
Part of Avon Beach falls within Mudeford Quay Conservation Area.
1.7
Tourism and marketing
Tourism is a very important industry to the economic viability of Christchurch, providing
an estimated 2,464 jobs in the Borough1. Over 1,552,000 day visitors are attracted to
Christchurch every year, in addition to some 214,000 staying visitors. The total value of
tourism to Christchurch's economy is estimated at approximately £100 million per annum
thus showing the popularity of Christchurch as a tourist destination.
Our coastal amenities are a big attraction. Past surveys have shown that visitors identify
the coastal amenities as their primary reason for visiting the town. Christchurch is a
first-class destination for water-sports and also enjoys un-crowded beaches.
Visitors to the area can find out about the beaches from the Visitor Information Centre
based at the Regent’s Centre on the High Street.
Web-based information provides a whole range of useful material:
 Dorset
For You
(the
website
for Dorset
local authorities)
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/409586 The management plan can also be
downloaded from this page.
 Christchurch
Beaches
and
Harbour
Facebook
page
https://www.facebook.com/#!/beachesandharbour
 Christchurch Beaches and Harbour Pinterest page displays photos under
different
themes
such
as
wildlife
and
historical
views.
http://www.pinterest.com/christchurchbh/
1
The Economic Impact of Dorset’s Visitor Economy 2012, The South West Research Company Ltd.
20
1.8
Environment and conservation
Christchurch has a very green coastline, with many majestic trees and a nature reserve
as a back drop to the beaches. The nature of the environment and the way the beach
area is managed greatly impacts upon the quality and character of Christchurch
beaches.
.
ACTION: Install display board about coastal ecosystems and sensitive habitats
1.8.1 Protected areas
Highcliffe to Milford Cliffs SSSI
The cliffs from Chewton Bunny in the east to just west of Steamer Point in the west form
part of the Highcliffe to Milford Cliffs Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which was
designated in 1953. This coastal site provides access to the standard succession of the
fossil rich Barton Beds and Headon Beds. Various exposures within the site are
considered important both in a national and international context. The older rocks lie in
the western part of the site, younger rocks being found progressing eastward.
Friars Cliff is a key Tertiary Site providing a unique exposure of marine sediments which,
together with sections of Poole Bay, enable a good reconstruction of an ancient estuary
to be made.
Within the sands of Friars Cliff and Highcliffe there is a particularly fine assemblage of
plant fossils. These cliffs are the only known locality with a diverse flora from the
Boscombe sands; over fifty species have been recorded from these beds. Fruits, seeds,
coniferous remains and fern pinnules found here represent wetland plants, but there are
also lianas, herbaceous climbers, trees and shrubs. These are forms typical of early and
early middle Eocene strata in Britain, but they were still surviving in late middle Eocene
times at this site.
The coastal section from Friars Cliff to Milford on Sea forms one of Britain’s most
important stratigraphic and paleontological sites. This area is the type locality for the
Barton Beds and is also the best exposure of the Lower Headon Beds. The Barton Beds
yield the most diverse and best preserved fauna of the British Tertiary while the Lower
Headon Beds demonstrate very clearly the relationship between the changing salinity of
the coastal environments and the fauna inhabiting them.
The cliffs in the vicinity of Chewton Bunny are the only sites to yield fossil plants from
Lower Barton Beds. At least twenty-eight plant species occur and, for five of these, this
is the type locality. Fossil fruits, seeds and cones represent wetland plants but there are
also some warm climate shrubs or small trees. The make-up of the flora here reveals the
first indications of the climatic cooling which affected Britain in later Tertiary times.
We place a high value on the protection of our SSSIs and ensure that our management
practices meet the requirements set out by Natural England.
21
Adjacent protected areas
In the vicinity of the Beach Area are a number of other sites. The northern wooded area
of Chewton Bunny and parts of Mudeford Quay are Sites of Nature Conservation
Interest (SNCI) and Christchurch Harbour is an SSSI. Steamer Point, situated near
Friars Cliff Beach, is designated a Local Nature Reserve.
Figure 3 in the Appendix shows designated areas within and adjacent to the Beach
Area.
1.8.2 Trees
Christchurch has a very attractive coastline and this is, in part, down to the trees and
other vegetation that provide a backdrop to the beach area. Historically planted
shelterbelt trees have provided excellent amenity value for many years and should be
protected, managed and enhanced for future generations. This is in spite of growing
pressures to preserve or enhance sea views. Although much of the vegetation including
tree cover is now regenerated naturally, replanting programmes are planned where
possible to ensure continued tree populations. The cliff vegetation and trees from Friars
Cliff to Chewton Bunny also have an important role to play as they help maintain the
stability of the cliffs and reduce erosion.
The council’s Tree Strategy outlines specific policies relating to trees and vegetation on
the cliff face and in coastal areas. The policies state that the council will:
 Aim to retain tree and vegetation cover giving consideration to the existing
ecology, geology and landscape features
 Control non-native and invasive vegetation to prevent its spread into areas of
native vegetation
 Undertake routine inspections of the more prominent and accessible trees
and carryout remedial safety works when and where possible
 Aim to replace lost trees and plant additional trees, ensuring, that where
possible they are native and suitable to the conditions
 Not normally give consideration for the cutting of trees and other vegetation to
enhance views from private residences and gardens
 Authorise tree cutting only for health and safety requirements and where
there is a sound geological or landscape reasons.
In more general terms the council is responsible for the management of trees located
within its parks, gardens, woodlands, open spaces and countryside sites and
maintaining these trees in a healthy and safe condition to ensure they do not cause legal
nuisance. Work on trees is only normally carried out if a tree is dead, dying or
dangerous. However, work may also be carried out on trees which are overgrowing
highways and footways, obscuring public CCTV or otherwise causing a serious public
nuisance as outlined in the Tree Policy and Tree Work Policy (Public Trees).
22
The Tree Work Policy focuses on discretionary tree work requests by residents. The
council will not normally agree to undertake work to council-owned trees that it would not
do itself. Applications for permission to carry out tree works should meet the criteria set
out in the Tree Work Policy
Flora and Fauna
The Council recognises that although there are no statutory or advisory environmental
designations for the quality of the beach environment specifically relating to flora &
fauna, there is already evidence at certain locations where there are species recognised
for their national or regional significance, for instance Polygonum maritimum (sea knot
grass), that nomination for special status may occur in future. The council will promote
particular areas that may gain such status in future, through the careful management of
our beaches for recreation and coast protection.
1.9
Sustainability
We are committed to reducing our impact on the environment in all areas of our work.
We have adopted an Environmental Strategy and Action Plan which details how we
will do this. The strategy focuses on reducing our environmental impact in a number of
areas which affect how we work at the Beaches, including transport, waste, building and
land management.
The council emphasises the importance of maintaining a high quality built and natural
environment in its Corporate Plan. This places responsibilities on the council, and those
it authorises to use its land, to operate and manage sites such as the Beaches in an
environmentally sound way.
1.9.1 Energy and water efficiency
The lights inside the council-owned public toilets are operated by PIRs (passive infra-red
detectors) which detect body heat and then switch on the lights for a predetermined
period. They are also fitted with small cisterns and urinal flush control in order to reduce
water consumption.
Our tenants at the beaches understand the importance of striving to reduce their impact
on the environment. These are some of the ways in which tenants have changed how
they work:
 Separate cardboard, plastic, milk bottle tops and cans for recycling
 Collect food waste for composting
 Use movement sensitive light bulbs
 Turn power off as much as possible at night
 Regularly maintain equipment to ensure it functions efficiently
 Use locally sourced products as much as possible
 Install energy and water efficient equipment
1.9.2 Sustainable transport
We encourage residents and visitors to make sustainable choices about how they travel;
a sustainable choice is one which keeps damage to the environment, and therefore the
23
future, to a minimum. Christchurch Active Travel Map highlights the traffic-free
footpaths, bridleways, byways and cycle routes, as well as quiet roads, where people
can avoid traffic. Active travel helps people get physically active travelling to and from
their destinations and it is also a sustainable way to get about. The beaches are wellserved by active travel routes both to and along sections of the coast.
1.9.3 Litter and recycling
Litter bins within the Beach Area are emptied by Dorset Waste Partnership (except for
Highcliffe Beach which is dealt with by a separate contractor). The litter bins along the
Beach Area are emptied daily and twice daily during the school summer holidays
As the lessees, Avon Beach Limited is responsible for the bins on Avon Beach.
The contractor who empties litter bins at Highcliffe Beach also litter picks all beaches to
a high standard, often exceeding the standards specified within the Code of Practice
referred to in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA). Higher standards are
achieved by:
 Providing winter collections (No clear ups are required under EPA from
October to March)
 Higher clear up rates that those specified under the EPA.
Recycling bins are available at Friars Cliff Beach.
ACTION: Trial recycling at Gundimore Beach.
1.9.4 Procurement of site features
We believe that the choices we make when purchasing materials and products for use at
our sites has an impact on the environment and we strive to make sustainable choices
where possible. For example, the picnic benches on Friars Cliff Hinterland and on
Highcliffe Cliff Top are made from recycled plastic.
Hut owners are required to use timber from sustainable sources when replacing beach
huts.
1.10
Travel and access
The beaches can be reached by car, bicycle, bus or by foot.
Cycling
It is possible to cycle to the beaches albeit not on dedicated cycle routes and there are
cycle racks located at Gundimore, Avon Beach, Friars Cliff Beach, at the bottom of the
Zigzag path at Highcliffe Castle Beach and on Chewton Bunny.
Mude Valley Greenway runs from Somerford roundabout to Mudeford Quay and
provides a gateway to the beaches for cyclists via Gundimore.
24
Coastal route
Christchurch Coastal Route extends from Chewton Bunny in the east to Mudeford Quay
in the West along a network of established formal promenades and paths. The majority
of the route can also be cycled, apart from one on-road link being required to negotiate a
footway-only stretch at Friars Cliff. Over half the Coastal Route is wheelchair-friendly all
year round.
Wheelchair and buggy access
The promenades at Gundimore, Avon Beach and Friars Cliff Beach can all be accessed
by wheelchair. The beach can be accessed directly via the DDA compliant Highcliffe
Castle Zigzag, a ramp at the eastern end of Friars Cliff Beach, at various points in the
vicinity of the car park at Avon Beach and along a slope at Friars Cliff Beach. The
promenades at Highcliffe Beach are not suitable for wheelchairs but it is possible to take
buggies on these slopes although in places it makes for a bumpy a ride.
Bus
It is possible to reach the beaches by bus, although for most beaches this requires a
slightly longer walk (varying from 200 to 700 metres) than would be necessary if arriving
by car. Bus stops on the Wilts and Dorset Bournemouth to Lymington route (121 & 123)
are located on Bure Lane close to Avon and Friars Cliff Beaches and at Highcliffe village
centre crossroads close to Highcliffe Beach.
Car
All beaches can be easily reached by car and are served by a number of car parks both
within and outside the CBHMP boundary. During peak season overflow car parks at
Steamer Point and Highcliffe Cliff Top are in operation.
1.11
Health and safety
It is important that the area is well-maintained and clean from an aesthetic as well as
health and safety perspective. We carry out a variety of roles to ensure that the
beaches remain a pleasant site to visit.
1.11.1 Safety inspections
Regular site inspections are carried out by the Community and Open Spaces Team.
This includes checking the emergency equipment, the general cleanliness and condition
of all other features and ensuring that licence holders (business and hut owners) are
complying with the terms of their licences. Follow up action and remedial works are
carried out where necessary. The team maintains and updates a risk assessment for
the site annually.
All council employees working on site are trained to council health and safety standards.
1.11.2 Safety provisions
Being a large site it is important that certain facilities are on site to ensure the safety and
comfort of visitors.
25
Beach safety signage
Beach safety information, potential hazards and dos and don’ts are displayed at all
beaches via RNLI approved signage.
These signs use unique beach locations codes (UBLC) which help the public relay the
exact location details to the emergency services when an incident is taking place.
Life lines
Life lines can be found along the coast. The condition of the life lines is always checked
during site inspections.
Dogs
We aim to strike a balance between providing areas for dogs to exercise in a natural
environment and maintaining a safe beach environment for bathers and other users.
The following dog control orders apply to the beach area:
The Fouling of Land by
Dogs (Christchurch) Order
2013
This order makes it an offence for anyone to fail to
remove dog faeces deposited by a dog, for which he or
she is responsible, from any land which is open to the
air and to which the public are entitled or permitted to
have access (with or without payment) within the
Borough of Christchurch.
The Dogs Exclusion
(Christchurch) Order 2013
This order makes it an offence for anyone to take a dog
for which he or she is responsible onto, or permit the
dog to enter, or to remain on the beach between Avon
Beach and Friars Cliff Beach and the beach between
groynes H4 and H8 from 1 May to 30 September each
year.
The Dogs on Leads by
Direction (Christchurch)
Order 2013
This order makes it an offence for anyone not to keep a
dog for which he or she is responsible for on a lead
when on the promenade, the cliff steps and cliff
pathways between Avon Beach and Friars Cliff from 1
May to 30 September each year.
Dogs are welcome on certain beaches all year round:



Gundimore Beach
Highcliffe Castle Beach
Highcliffe Beach (except the area between groynes H4 and H8 which is only
available for dog walking between the months of October and April inclusive)
For further details (including maps)
warden/christchurch/dog-control-orders
26
see
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/dog-
Dog waste bins are provided within the beach area.
1.11.3 Health and well-being
The council plays a role in helping local people to lead healthy and active lives. We
work in partnership with local organisations and sports and physical activity clubs as
identified in the Christchurch Active Living Strategy. The beaches offer the space
and infrastructure to help support this agenda.
1.11.4 Water quality
For at least the last five years, the beaches have consistently enjoyed an excellent
standard of water quality (as defined by the Environment Agency).
The Environment Agency tests the sea for bathing water quality over a twenty week
period from May each year. Bathing waters are monitored for total coliform bacteria and
faecal coliform bacteria which are an indicator of the presence of traces of human
sewage. There are two designated standards set within the EU Bathing Water Directive.
The mandatory standards, which should not be exceeded, are:
 10,000 total coliforms per 100 millilitres (ml) of water
 2,000 faecal coliforms per 100ml of water
In order for a bathing water to comply with the Directive, 95% of the samples (i.e. at
least 19 out of the 20 taken) must meet these standards, plus other criteria.
The guideline standards, which should be achieved where possible, are:
 no more than 500 total coliforms per 100ml of water in at least 80% of the
samples (i.e. 16 or more out of 20)
 no more than 100 faecal coliforms per 100ml of water in at least 80% of the
samples (i.e. 16 or more out of 20)
 and for Blue Flags no more than 100 faecal streptococci per 100ml of water
in at least 90% of the samples (i.e. 18 or more out of 20)
Bathing waters analyses are also made on the basis of other standards contained in the
EU Directive. Two samples are analysed for the presence of enteroviruses, and two
samples for the presence of salmonellae, at any site that failed the mandatory coliform
standards in the previous year.
Christchurch Beach Water Quality results are displayed at all beach sites and in a
number of locations around the Borough including the public libraries.
Updates to EU Bathing Water Directives come into force on December 2014.
ACTION: Carry out work to meet revised EU Bathing Water Directive which comes into
force on 31 December 2014.
27
Water pollution
There is generally little evidence of water borne or wind borne pollution in Christchurch
and Bournemouth Bays, although wet weather and heavy discharges from emergency
outflows in previous years has been detrimental to water quality results.
Occasionally unacceptable levels of waste wash up on the beaches. If this is deemed a
public health hazard the council is responsible for its removal.
The Dorset Coastal Pollution Clearance Plan outlines procedures and responsibilities
regarding pollution incidents on the Dorset coast.
Oil and chemical pollution
This is primarily a matter of public health as far as the council is concerned. If an
incident were to occur this would trigger a planned response commensurate to its scale
as outlined in the council’s emergency and disaster plans.
1.11.5 Rock falls and landslides
We follow the Dorset Coastal Rock and Landslide Protocol.
1.11.6 Building maintenance
Our tenants at Avon Beach, the Beach Hut Café, Christchurch Lifesaving Club
Headquarters and the Cliffhanger café are required to keep buildings in good repair as
identified in the terms of their leases. As the site is inspected a minimum of once a
week we quickly pick up problems with other council buildings.
ACTION: Maintain and repair all council-owned buildings at the beaches.
1.11.7 Other formal controls
It is good practice to ensure our licensees are working with us to keep the beaches in
good order. We make provisions within the licences we issue so that these users have
appropriate insurance and keep the site in good order.
1.12
Supporting infrastructure
The council provide basic services and amenities to ensure visits to the beach area are
comfortable and enjoyable.
Public toilets
We own and maintain the public toilets at Friars Cliff and Highcliffe Castle beaches. The
public toilets on Highcliffe Cliff Top are managed by the Cliffhanger café and those at
Avon Beach are managed by Avon Beach Ltd.
The council toilets are cleaned to an agreed contract specification by a private sector
contractor for an agreed fee.
The main components are:
 There is one major clean daily to full contract standard
28


There are additional minor cleans
The cleaning schedule increases cleaning in the summer
The boroughs toilets are kept in good repair and redecorated when needed to ensure
they continue to meet high standards.
Car parks
There are 7 public car parks which serve the beaches all of which are all covered by the
Borough of Christchurch (Various Road and Parking Places) Consolidation of Orders
made for On and Off Street Parking Places Order 2004.
Table 1: Car parks serving Christchurch Beaches.
Car park
Sat nav
postcode
Spaces
Disabled
bays
Opening
times
Avon
Beach
BH23 4AN
89 summer
69 summer
6
Mon-Sun
9am - 10pm
Avon Run
Road
BH23 4DU
230
3
Mon-Sun
9am – 9pm
Highcliffe
Castle
BH23 4LE
100
6
Mon-Sun
7am - dusk
Highcliffe
Cliff Top
BH23 5JE
624
26
Open 24
hours
Mudeford
Quay
BH23 4AB
441
15
Open 24
hours
Southcliffe
Road
BH23 4EN
209
0
Mon-Sun
9am – 9pm
Steamer
Point
BH23 4TA
169
4
Mon- Sun
9am – 9pm
Charges
apply from
10am
Further car park details, including charges:
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/travel-dorset/roads-and-driving/parking/car-parks-indorset/christchurch
Height barriers are present at Steamer Point, Friars Cliff, Southcliffe Road and Avon
Run Road car parks.
Signage
Signs are a great way to communicate information with visitors. We feel it is important
to ensure that signage is kept at an acceptable level so that it does not detract from the
visual amenity of the site.
Where we have concessions, signs are clearly displayed and show relevant information.
29
Water
Water stand pipes serve the beach huts at Friars Cliff.
ACTION: Install water stand pipes to serve beach huts at Gundimore.
1.13
Commercial activities
Three commercial businesses operate from buildings in the Beach Area which are
leased and licensed by the council. The council also leases the Beach Hut sites at
Friars Cliff.
1.13.1 Leases and licences
The terms and conditions of these licences help maintain the quality of the beach
environment.
Beach Huts
There are beach huts at Friars Cliff Beach, Gundimore Beach and Avon Beach. Those
at Avon Beach are present only during the summer months and are managed by The
Avon Beach Company under the terms of their lease.
The huts at Friars Cliff and Gundimore are privately owned and placed on sites licensed
by the council. Licences are subject to various conditions including payment of an
annual license fee. When ownership of a hut is transferred from one party to another, a
transfer fee is payable to the council by the hut owner. Details regarding terms and
conditions of the huts can be found in the Friars Cliff Beach Hut Handbook 2011 and the
Gundimore Beach Hut Handbook.
There are also beach huts on Mudeford Sandbank; their management is covered in the
management plan for the Sandbank.
Concessions
A number of approved mobile refreshment concessions operate at the Beaches:



Mobile refreshment concession associated with Cliffhanger Café
permitted between Chewton Bunny and groyne H5
Mobile refreshment concession associated with Highcliffe Castle Tea
Rooms from bottom of zigzag to groyne H5
Mobile refreshment concession on Gundimore promenade
There are no other mobile concessions on council car parks or recreation grounds within
the Beach Area.
Leases and Licenses
30
A number of businesses and premises in the CBHMP area are leased or licensed by the
council:
 Avon Beach Limited
 Friars Cliff Beach Café – The Beach Hut
 Highcliffe Clifftop Café – The Cliffhanger
The terms and conditions of these help maintain the quality of the Beach environment.
ACTION: Advice tenants on ways to improve environmental sustainability.
1.13.2 Harbour and coastal foreshore assets
The council is facing financial pressures in line with those being experienced by local
government as a whole and we need to ensure our assets are fulfilling their potential,
both for the community and as generators of vital council income.
Consideration is being given to how we might make a greater commercial return from
our coastal assets in the future, appropriate to their character and subject to the
constraints that might exist from site to site.
Classification of the coastal and harbour areas based on their current character, level of
commercialisation and recreational uses will help ensure any future proposals are suited
to the location. Mudeford Sandbank falls within Zone 2 – generally well used by the
public for recreation and leisure and new proposals are feasible without compromising
character, uses or environment.
ACTION: Look for ways to make greater financial return from the Beaches assets whilst
maintaining the area’s character.
1.13.3 Filming and photography
Professional filming or photography may be permitted on the beaches. Applications are
assessed on a case by case basis and charged at the market rate.
1.14
Community involvement
We encourage local people to become involved with their local open spaces. Regular
beach clean ups prove very popular and provide a great way for people to take pride
and an interest in their local beach.
Friars Cliff Beach Management Advisory Group
This group gives representatives from local groups involved with the beach, including
residents’ associations, businesses and local sports groups, the opportunity to meet and
discuss issues affecting Friars Cliff Beach. The group provides a valuable avenue for
communication of ideas and issues between beach users and the council.
ACTION: Continue to work closely with local stakeholder groups.
31
1.15
Management controls
The following controls and designations are in place to help keep the beaches a safe
and pleasant place.
1.15.1 Byelaws
A number of byelaws apply to the area:
Table 2: Byelaws at Christchurch Beaches
2, 5 & 9
Good rule and government and for the prevention of
nuisances
16
Seashores and promenades
24
Fireworks in places of public entertainment
32
Control of seaside pleasure boats
The full details of each byelaw are signposted below:
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/christchurchbyelaws
1.15.2 Information signage
Information signage relating to byelaws and their enforcement is specific to each byelaw.
The council has a policy to only provide signage where there is a byelaw to be enforced
or a need for signage on health and safety grounds.
The council adopted the policy to standardise information signage relating to beach
safety and life guarding in April 2007. From this date all replacement signs will conform
to the RNLI national standardised beach signage criteria.
1.15.3 Dog controls
We aim to strike a balance between providing areas for dogs to be exercised in a natural
environment and maintaining safe beaches for other users.
Details of dog control orders can be found in Section 1.11.2.
1.15.4 Littering controls
Community Enforcement Officers can issue £75 Litter Fixed Penalty tickets under the
Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005 to anyone seen littering.
1.15.5 Security
There are CCTV cameras on Highcliffe Cliff Top and at Avon Beach; the cameras at
Avon Beach are managed by Avon Beach Limited. Beach sites are regularly assessed
to identify areas that may require CCTV.
32
The council works closely with both Dorset Police and youth outreach teams to deal with
instances of anti-social behaviour should they arise.
The beaches are covered by two PACT (Partnerships and Communities Together) panel
areas: Mudeford/Highcliffe West and Highcliffe/Walkford.
PACT panels are
neighbourhood policing initiatives that provide a forum to deal with issues facing
residents.
1.15.6 Emergency planning and disaster management
In the event of a major incident of oil pollution which could threaten Christchurch, the
council has opted to play a supporting role, although there is no statutory requirement to
do so.
Dorset County Council will be the lead authority in close co-operation with the Maritime
and Coastguard Agency. There is a booming plan for Christchurch Harbour which relies
upon the co-operation and knowledge of council personnel, led by a qualified
Beachmaster.
The Dorset Coastal Pollution Clearance Plan (2010) identifies thirteen access points
and two rendezvous points in the Borough, which may require active management by
the council during a large scale emergency.
The introduction of the Civil Contingencies Act in 2004 has brought with it many new
obligations for Local Authorities, and in particular, the requirement for Business
Continuity Plans to be developed for business units so that they can reasonably foresee
their planned response in the event of a civil emergency.
33
2
Where do we want to get to?
The council aims to lead and influence the local community to take pride in the beaches.
By continually challenging what we do and consulting with local people we aim to
provide high quality beaches for all to enjoy. This section outlines aspirations for the
beaches and specific objectives to work towards.
2.1
Vision
Our Vision for the beaches is:
“To provide a high quality beach environment for
the enjoyment of Christchurch residents and
visitors to the area.”
2.2
Objectives
The management planning process itself helps to work towards the vision the council
has for the beaches by providing an effective management tool. The following key
objectives identify priority areas to defend and improve the quality of the beaches:
A. To maintain and enhance the unique character and environment of each
beach and the beach area as a whole.
B. To provide effective on-site management in order to keep the beaches safe
and enjoyable for all.
C. To balance the needs of various uses of the beaches to ensure the site is
sustainably managed and enjoyable for all.
D. To maximise the amenity value of the beaches
E. To apply coast protection measures appropriate for the needs of each
beach.
F. To ensure the beaches’ assets are fulfilling their potential, both for the
community and as a source of income.
Health & safety, sustainability and equalities policies influence all council work including
the objectives of CBHMP.
These objectives form the driver behind proposals listed in the Action Plan in section
3.2.
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2.3
Policy context
The valuable role that open spaces and the natural environment play in our communities
is recognised in a broad range of national, regional and local policies.
This section identifies a number of key documents, bodies and agencies which have an
impact on the beaches and the way in which they are managed.
2.3.1 National level
Open spaces, such as parks, recreations grounds and beaches, are recognised at a
national level as making a vital contribution to our quality of life. The overall national
policy context is set out in the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 which promotes
sustainable improvements to economic, environmental and social well-being of local
communities.
The National Planning Policy Framework sets out the Government’s planning policies
for England. The framework states that access to high quality open space and
opportunities for sport and recreation make an important contribution to the health and
well-being of communities.
2.3.2 Regional level
The South East Dorset Green Infrastructure Strategy – Investing in Green Places
creates a bold vision and sets a framework for high quality accessible green
infrastructure in the region. The strategy aims to help local authorities manage their
green infrastructure in ways which contribute to a wider, multi-functional network.
The Local Transport Plan 3, which covers Poole, Bournemouth and Dorset, has a
number of important priorities such as improving accessibility, creating safer roads and
improving air quality. By opening up previously excluded areas of land and increasing
the mobility of the community, the amount and quality of land available to be used as
green space can be enhanced and more people can have access to the services and
recreation they need.
GreenSpace Southwest provides a united voice to promote the regeneration and
sustainable future quality of green spaces. The group is becoming the leading
membership organisation in the region. We are represented at these regional meetings.
2.3.3 Local level
At a local level this management plan aligns itself with key council priorities and themes.
These themes are outlined in the Corporate Plan 2012 - 2016. The relevant objectives
are set out below:
Environment:
ENV1
Minimise waste to landfill and optimise recycling
ENV2
Manage the conflicts between developing the built
environment and protecting the natural environment
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Community:
C3
Work with partners to ensure crime levels in 2016 do not
exceed 2011 levels
Christchurch and East Dorset Core Strategy forms the central document of the area’s
Local Development Framework. A number of the Strategy’s objectives are relevant to
this management plan, namely:


Objective 1 - to manage and safeguard the natural environment of
Christchurch and East Dorset.
This objective notes Christchurch
Harbour, the coast, rivers and beaches as especially important natural
features which will be protected and enhanced.
Objective 3 – to adapt to the challenges of climate change.
CBHMP is one of a number of open space management plans and will sit beneath the
emerging Open Spaces Strategy. The Open Spaces Strategy will acknowledge the
intrinsic role that these spaces have to play in achieving healthy, prosperous, cohesive
and sustainable communities. It will map out how the council intends to safeguard,
improve and promote green spaces in terms of these themes. The strategy will also be
a spatial plan and, combined with the new Local Plan, will plan and prioritise
improvements to the network of green spaces within the borough.
Christchurch Community Partnership plays a key role in networking all the
Christchurch agencies engaged with the voluntary sector. It facilitates the Volunteer
Forum where potential initiatives are discussed, consensus gained and teams formed to
further develop successful ideas. Theme champions ensure new projects reach out to
as many people as possible. The themes are:








Culture and learning
Increased prosperity
High quality environment
Travel and access
Physical activity
Generations
Health and care
Community safety
Everyday work practices
Health and safety, sustainability and equalities policies influence all council work
including special projects, management and maintenance regimes at the beaches.
As a council we have a duty of care to maintain our premises in such a way as to ensure
‘a reasonable person’ is not put at risk. We achieve this through regular risk
assessments and a sound management regime.
Our duty of care is highest for those we licence to use specific areas on the Beaches.
The Beach Hut Regulations and terms of commercial leases take steps to control any
risks that have been identified through risk assessments. Risks are regularly assessed
36
and management practices changed in the light of new legislation and decisions
reached in court settlements.
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3
How will we get there?
The action plan details projects which will realise the vision and objectives for Beaches.
It identifies when, how and who will deliver these projects. The action plan is reviewed
annually in line with the council’s budget programming so that funds can be appreciated
for the coming year’s proposals.
Future proposals must work towards achieving the vision and objectives for the
Sandbank. Proposals will also be evaluated against the following order of precedence:






Use (including tourism, recreation and business use)
Coast protection2
Character
Environment and Ecology
Built heritage3
Accessibility
Where two or more potential proposals are in direct conflict with each other their impact
on each item in the order of precedence will help determine which projects are added to
the action plan.
3.1.1 Monitoring and review
This management plan is a living document which can be updated should priorities or
circumstances change. This will allow the plan to evolve in response to changing
demands, trends and pressures. We will track progress by:
 Annually reviewing the action plan.
 Reviewing the whole plan every 5 years4
 Consulting with stakeholders and the public where appropriate
Amendments may be needed in addition to the regular review to reflect changes in
council, national or international policy. These are recorded at the beginning of this
document.
2
Will be given greater priority where a proposal may pose a risk to property
Will be given a greater priority where a proposal affects part of a conservation area or an area with high
heritage value
4
This is in line with CABE Space recommendations for review frequency (CABE Space, A guide to
producing park and green space management plans, 30 April 2004).
3
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3.2
Action plan
Objective A: To maintain and enhance the unique character and environment of each beach and the beach area as a whole.
Ref
Action
Resource
Lead
Timescale
Priority
A1
Maintain and repair all council-owned
buildings at the beaches.
Council budget
Property &
Engineering
On-going
MEDIUM
A2
Install display board about coastal
ecosystems and sensitive habitats
Council budget
Communities &
Open spaces
2018
LOW
Objective B: To provide effective on-site management in order to keep the beaches safe and enjoyable for all.
Ref
Action
Resource
Lead
Timescale
Priority
B1
Carry out work to meet revised EU
Bathing Water Directive which comes into
force on 31 December 2014.
Council budget
Communities & Open
Spaces
December
2014
HIGH
B2
Introduce online administration for beach
hut licencing.
Council budget
Property & Engineering
Communities & Open
Spaces
2015/16
MEDIUM
B3
Install water stand pipes to service beach
huts at Gundimore
Council budget
Communities & Open
Spaces
2014/15
HIGH
B4
Trial recycling bin at Gundimore
Council budget
Communities & Open
Spaces
2015/16
LOW
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Objective C: To balance the needs of various uses of the beaches to ensure the site is sustainably managed and enjoyable for
all.
Ref Action
Resource
Lead
Timescale Priority
C1
Continue to work closely with local
stakeholder groups – e.g. FCBMAG
Council budget
Communities & Open Spaces
On-going
MEDIUM
C2
Advise tenants on ways to improve
environmental sustainability
Council budget
Sustainability management
officer
When new
national,
regional or
local
initiatives
arise
LOW
Resource
Lead
Timescale
Priority
Council budget
Communities & Open Spaces
Annual
MEDIUM
Objective D: To maximise the amenity value of the beaches.
Ref
Action
D1
See F1
D2
Re-apply for the Seaside Award for
Friars Cliff, Avon and Highcliffe
Beaches.
40
Objective E: To apply coast protection measures appropriate for the needs of each beach.
Ref
Action
Resource
Lead
Timescale
Priority
E1
Carry out coastal recovery and repair
works at Highcliffe Beach and
Avon/Gundimore Beach following winter
storms
Environment Agency
Recovery & Repair Fund
Small proportion of cost
met by council budget
Property & Engineering
March
2015
HIGH
E2
Carry out coastal recovery and repair
works following winter storms: Beach
replenishment from Gundimore to Steamer
Point
Environment Agency
Recovery & Repair Fund
Small proportion of cost
met by council budget
Property & Engineering
March
2015
HIGH
E3
Use appropriate coast protection
measures to maintain the current
environment at the beaches.
Council budget
Property & Engineering
Annual
HIGH
E4
Replace timber groynes with rock
armoured groynes at Avon and Friars Cliff
Beaches
Not yet known
Property & Engineering
2020+
LOW
Objective F: To ensure the beaches’ assets are fulfilling their potential, both for the community and as generators of income.
Ref
Action
Resource
Lead
Timescale
Priority
F1
Look for ways to make greater financial
return from the Beaches’ assets whilst
maintaining the area’s character.
Council budget
Communities & Open Spaces
Growth & Economy
On-going
HIGH
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Completed projects
Resource
Date completed
Acquisition and development of Rothesay Park as
public open space
Council budget
2003
Highcliffe Castle Zig Zag path
Council budget
2006
Wheelchair route at Friars Cliff
Council budget
Highcliffe cliff top café development – The Cliff
Hanger
Private sector
2006
Resurfacing of sections of Highcliffe Cliff Top car
park
Council budget
2006
Installation of posts to define boundary of Highcliffe
Cliff Top overflow car park
Council budget
2006
Larger capacity bins introduced at Friars Cliff
Council budget
June 2007
Cycle racks installed at Friars Cliff, Highcliffe
Castle, Avon Beach and Chewton Bunny
Council budget
Improvements to Highcliffe Castle car park
Council budget
2008
Olympic Pre Games Training Bid successful
N/A
Feb 2008
Introduction of beach clean programme
Council budget
2008
Additional cycle rack installed at Friars Cliff
Council budget
Feb 2009
Introduction of RNLI national standardised beach
signage
Council
RNLI
May 2009
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Notes
Led by Christchurch Community
Partnership and Christchurch Sailing
Action Group
Quality Coast Award (now known as Seaside
Award) for Friars Cliff
Council budget
June 2009
Now hold award at Friars, Avon and
Highcliffe Beaches
Introduced RNLI lifeguards at Avon, Friars Cliff and
Highcliffe Castle Beaches
Council budget
Avon Beach
Limited
Christchurch
Harbour Hotels
Cliffhanger café
July 2009
Service trialled at Highcliffe Castle Beach
during 2009.
Promotion of watersports through taster sessions
and work with schools via local clubs
Christchurch
Community
Partnership
Sport England
Grant
2009 - 2013
Beach hut sizes and regulations review
Council budget
2010
Rothesay beach access steps improvements
Council budget
Jan 2010
Set up Friars Cliff Beach Management Advisory
Group
Council budget
April 2010
Gundimore Access Improvement Scheme (shareduse pedestrian and cycle route)
Council budget
May 2010
Beach huts at Friars Cliff
Council budget
April 2011
Recovery and repair work following winter storms
at Avon and Friars Cliff Beaches
Environment
Agency
Contribution from
Council
April 2014
11 beach huts installed at Gundimore
Council budget
April 2014
43
4
Bibliography
4.1
Documents
Byelaws in Christchurch, Christchurch Borough Council,
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/christchurchbyelaws
Christchurch Active Living Strategy, Christchurch Borough Council, adopted 2006
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/387517
Christchurch Active Travel Map, Christchurch Borough Council, September 2011
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/activetravelmaps
Christchurch and East Dorset Core Strategy Consolidated Version, Christchurch
Borough Council and East Dorset District Council, 15 March 2013
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/408258
Christchurch Borough-wide Character Assessment, Christchurch Borough Council,
adopted November 2003
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/389135
Christchurch Corporate Plan 2012 - 2016
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/391311
Dog Control Orders, 2013
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/dog-warden/christchurch/dog-control-orders
Dorset Coastal Pollution Clearance Plan, 2010
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/coastalpollution
Dorset Coastal Rock and Landslide Protocol.
http://www.lymebaycoastwatch.co.uk/index_htm_files/Dorset%20Coastal%20Rock%20F
all%20and%20Landslide%20Protocol%20Final%2013%20.pdf
Environmental Strategy and Action Plan 2013 – 2015, Christchurch Borough Council
and East Dorset District Council
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/411881
Friars Cliff Beach Hut Handbook, Christchurch Borough Council, 2011.
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/409581
Gundimore Beach Hut Handbook, Christchurch Borough Council, March 2014.
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/409581
Investing in Green places – South East Dorset Green Infrastructure Strategy,
Consultation Draft, Purbeck District Council, Borough of Poole, Christchurch Borough
Council, East Dorset District Council, Natural England, Dorset County Council,
Bournemouth Borough Council, Environment Agency, Forestry Commission England,
February 2011 – currently being endorsed by partner organisations.
44
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/greeninfrastructure
Local Plan (Consolidated), September 2007
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/389080
Local Plan (New) – under development
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/ldf/christchurch
National Planning Policy Framework, Department for Communities and Local
Government, March 2012.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2
Open Spaces Strategy, Christchurch Borough Council – under development
Poole and Christchurch Bays Shoreline Management Plan 2, November 2010
http://www.twobays.net/
Sustainable Communities Act 2007, February 2008
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-communities-act-2007decisions-on-local-councils-proposals-to-improve-local-areas
Use of Open Spaces Policy Document, Christchurch Borough Council, November
1997
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/christchurchopenspaces
4.2
Organisations
Christchurch Community Partnership
http://www.christchurchcommunitypartnership.org.uk/
GreenSpace Southwest
http://www.green-space.org.uk/southwest/
45
5
Acronyms
CBHMP
Christchurch Beaches and Hinterland Management
Plan
DDA
Disability Discrimination Act
DEFRA
Department for the Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs
EA
Environment Agency
EPA
Environmental Protection Act 1990
LNR
Local Nature Reserve
PIR
Passive Infra-Red detector
SMP
Shoreline Management Plan
SNCI
Site of Nature Conservation Interest
SSSI
Site of Special Scientific Interest
46
6
Appendix
Figure 2: Beach Segregation Scheme.
(Adopted at Christchurch Borough Council Amenities Committee 1985)
47
Figure 3: Nature designations within and adjacent to CBHMP area.
48