Law and order on the beaches of Benitachell

BENITACHELL Council voted unanimously in favour of new by-laws regulating use of its beaches.

Glass bottles are banned and beachgoers visiting the more inaccessible Llebeig and Els Testos coves must take away any rubbish that they generate.  There is also a strict veto on tombstoning from cliffs or rocks along the town’s coastline.

As the local beaches become increasingly popular the council agreed that it was important to define what is permitted and what is not and also to take steps to avoid overcrowding.

As well as the ban on glass, the public will be asked not to throw rubbish, cigarette ends, drink cans and any non-biodegradable objects on the beaches.

Neither bonfires nor gas canisters may be used and there will be fines for anyone caught dumping unwanted furniture or other items. Using shampoo, gel or any type of detergent in the sea also earns a fine.

Animals are banned from the Benitachell beaches apart from guide dogs or those used in rescue operations. Fishing at the water’s edge is vetoed during the day during the high season to ensure the safety of swimmers although this will be allowed from 9pm until 9am.

Fines range from €750 for minor offences, rising to €3,000 for more serious breaches of the by-laws.