Bamburgh Castle Estates committed to finding beach access solution

Bamburgh Parish Council had discussed the lack of wheelchair access to one of Britain’s most popular beaches at its August meeting.

A response from Bamburgh Castle Estates, read out at the September meeting, stated: “Bamburgh Castle Estates remain committed to finding a suitable, easier, friendlier user access to the beach and look forward to working with the parish council and other relevant parties in seeking a solution.”

It has also backtracked on a trial removal of rubbish bins from both car parks along The Wynding to encourage visitors to take it away with them.

The suggestion had been opposed by parish councillors.

And Cllr Barbara Brook, parish council chairman, added: “I’ve had a further discussion with Bamburgh Castle Estates and they have decided that all the bins can remain at the car parks at The Wynding until further notice so that’s good.”

There was no further update on plans to introduce double yellow lines at The Wynding.

However, parish councillors are now convinced that parking restrictions will eventually have to be put in place as far as the golf club.

Cllr Kirsty Dobson said: “That’s what we originally said and it’s been proved that we do need that because it’s got jammed beyond the first car park.”

Cllr Brook agreed it had been ‘mayhem’ at times.

However, Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson, county councillor, has advised that the current double yellow lines scheme should proceed first to avoid the need for a reconsultation and further delay.

A recently formed volunteer litter-picking group has now been given equipment from the county council.

Discussions are still taking place to over the potential refurbishment of steps to the lighthouse.

"Trinity House have asked us to help to pay,” said Cllr Brook.

It was suggested that donations from holiday let owners could be put towards it but Cllr Renner-Thompson said he would see if his small schemes funding could be used.

Letters have been sent to households on Lindisfarne Avenue to seek their views on a residents’ permit scheme.

It was also revealed that the village water bottle filler has been covered over by Northumbrian Water as a Covid-19 safety measure.

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