ENFORCEMENT action against beach campers is heating up along the BCP coast with 70 legal notices issued since June.
In anticipation of a busy weekend, the BCP board reminded beachgoers that overnight camping on beaches will not be tolerated and could result in prosecution.
An ‘early wake up call’ could be given to anyone sleeping along Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole beaches, with warning signs also posted in key locations.
A spokesperson for the BCP Council told the Echo: ‘As part of our enhanced summer response plan, we have worked hard to tackle overnight camping on our beaches and ensure that everyone understands the rules in place.
🚫We have put up signs in key areas to remind people that overnight camping is not permitted at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole beaches 🚫
Since early June, our team has issued 70 legal notices to campers ordering them to leave. #RespectProtectEnjoy pic.twitter.com/N0USQcQynF
— BCP Council (@BCPCouncil) August 11, 2022
“We have stepped up our messaging with stop signs now posted at key locations along the seafront to remind visitors that overnight camping on the beach is not permitted.
“Between June 7 and August 5, we issued 70 legal notices and if people who receive legal notices do not give their details, the police will take action. We have a team on site to disrupt anyone camping during the night, who faces prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
“We will continue to work alongside our partners this weekend in warm weather and during the to keep our waterfront a safe, welcoming and clean place to visit.”
Councilor Beverley Dunlop, Member of Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places, added: ‘We ask people to be respectful, overnight camping is not permitted on our beaches, and we have a team that will disrupt campers who risk an early wake up call and a £1000 fine.