Important Information About Llanbedrog Beach

Please find below some important news about Llanbedrog Beach from The National Trust:

The wrath of Storm Emma washed away tonnes of sand from Llanbedrog, reducing the height of the beach by about 2ft and uncovering the site of what appears to be an old rubbish tip. This discovery has galvanised an ongoing clean-up, which the charity warn could take some time to fully resolve.

Warning to visitors

The buried rubbish is thought to be historical and consists of some burnt metal and glass. Please do not walk on the beach barefoot or let children play and dig in the sand, until further notice. 

We estimate that about 250 tonnes of rubbish (mixed in with sand) has already been removed from the beach by machinery and a further 10 tonnes by hand and we’re working with relevant organisations to dispose of the waste safely. 

Andy Godber, Llŷn Operations Manager said, “At first glance it may not be obvious that there’s even a problem here as the rubbish is buried, but that also means it’s harder to gauge the true extent of the issue. 

We have already removed a significant amount of rubbish from the beach, but despite our best efforts to resolve the issue quickly, we suspect there may still be more rubbish uncovered by tides and the weather for some time to come. As such, we’re still urging visitors to be vigilant of the increased risk, especially of sharp edges and shards of glass.”

The drop in the level of sand following storm Emma has been witnessed at other beaches in the area, including Porthor, Tywyn y Fach and Porthdinllaen. 

Andy added, “We hope that with time the sand will be replenished naturally by the tides. Unfortunately the drop in sand levels and high spring tides still to come, mean it’s not safe for us to return the beach huts to the shore at Llanbedrog in time for Easter. We are monitoring the situation carefully and keeping beach hut occupiers informed, but the priority for us is ensuring public safety.”

Joan Smith, National Trust Visitor Experience Officer for our beaches added “It’s been a case of all hands on deck to try and collect as much litter as we can and contain the issue. We have already and will continue to carry out additional litter picks.  We’ve been overwhelmed by the support from the local community and would like to take this opportunity to thank them.”

Andy concluded, “There is likely to be further disruption as we try and deal with the issue, please check our website and social media channels for updates before you visit. We’d also like to thank visitors for their patience and understanding and the local community for their support with the clean-up effort.”