St Gothian Sands Consultation Project

Cornwall Council Explores Nature-Based Coastal Protection at St Gothian Sands

Cornwall Council has secured funding from the Making Space for Sand initiative to explore how natural dune processes—such as dune roll-back—can help protect our coastline. This work aligns with the Shoreline Management Plan’s approach of Managed Realignment, with a focus on using natural features for long-term resilience.

Visit the Making space for Sand website at: Home Page - Making Space for sand

To support this, the Council has commissioned landscape architects Mei Loci to lead a public consultation on how nature-based solutions can be better implemented at St Gothian Sands.

Why St Gothian Sands?

St Gothian Sands is a designated Local Nature Reserve and part of the Hayle Dune System County Wildlife Site. It’s a vital habitat for wildlife and a popular beach destination.

The existing Red River Vision Plan identifies this site as a potential hub for encouraging more active travel—such as walking and cycling—to reduce environmental impact and improve access.

What’s Happening Next?

Mei Loci will develop a spatial plan through community consultation. This plan will:

• Support the Making Space for Sand re-naturalisation goals
• Enhance biodiversity and habitat conservation
• Integrate social and economic benefits for the local community

Get Involved

We want to hear from you! Visit the Gwithian Towans - Making Space for Sand page to learn more about the initiative and upcoming consultation events.

You can also:

• Take part in online surveys via the Mei Loci website: Projects - MeiLoci Beautiful Spaces for People, and for Nature
• Subscribe for updates and stay informed about the project’s progress

The Making Space for Sand project is funded by Defra as part of the £200 million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes which is managed by the Environment Agency. The programmes will drive innovation in flood and coastal resilience and adaptation to a changing climate.