Damage to the sand dunes

The meeting took place on Wednesday, January 22nd and was arranged to discuss the substantial damage to the sand dunes caused by the recent storms.

Speaking after the meeting Councillor Thompson said; “The sand dunes have been badly damaged right along Glenariff Beach. This is a unique habitat in The Glens, being the only sand dune and Marram Grass system between White Park Bay and County Down.

“It provides habitat for a huge number of coastal animals and this needs to be protected. We have asked the Bio-diversity officer to compile a report on the damage and bring that back to Moyle District Council as soon as possible as it is important that this is dealt with promptly to safeguard the unique environmental status of these sand dunes. Moyle District Council must treat this as a matter of urgency.”

His party colleague Oliver Mc Mullan MLA added; “The recent storms caused a large amount of environmental damage to Glenariff Beach and the sand dunes, they now need to be reinstated as quickly as possible so that there is no long term disturbance for the ecosystem in the area.

“Glenariff Beach is one of the finest beaches in Ireland and I have asked The Bio-diversity Officer to deal with this as a priority and I will be also be bringing this matter to the attention of The Minister Of The Environment at The Assembly.”