Iconic British beach considers using water cannons after surge in tourist fires and BBQs

An iconic British beach is considering the use of water cannons to deal with a recent surge in tourist fires and barbecues.

Residents in Anglesey are calling for the drastic action, which would see the deployment of water-cannon drones, following fresh incidents of visitors igniting illegal fires at the beach adjacent to protected woodland.

The latest controversy erupted after beachgoers were photographed lighting a fire on Traeth Llanddwyn, situated beside Newborough Forest nature reserve, prompting fury among the local community.

The beauty spot has seen visitor numbers surge in recent years, driven by social media exposure and its regular appearance on rankings of Britain's finest coastal destinations.

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While most tourists respect the area, a minority continue to disregard regulations designed to protect the sensitive environment from fire damage.

Open fires and barbecues are prohibited throughout the beach and woodland, with the sole exception being a designated zone at the main car park.

The rationale behind these restrictions is clear: the forest represents a significant fire hazard, particularly during spells of warm, dry conditions like those currently affecting the region.

Should a substantial blaze take hold, the consequences for the woodland ecosystem would be severe.

The area provides crucial habitat for various species, most notably the red squirrel, which faces extinction across much of Britain.

A major fire would pose a catastrophic threat to these vulnerable creatures and the broader wildlife population that depends on the forest for survival.

A photograph capturing a group of young men beside an open fire on the beach, dangerously close to the forest edge, was circulated on the Llanddwyn and Forest Support Group on Sunday evening. Natural Resources Wales reportedly attended the scene after locals raised the alarm.

The image sparked considerable backlash online. One commenter wrote: "Absolute idiots, we need water cannon drones, give the whole lot a good soaking." The suggestion garnered support from other group members.

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Numerous residents have demanded that authorities begin issuing fines and making arrests to deter future offenders.

A separate initiative has emerged pushing for more visible warning signs throughout the site to communicate the dangers posed by illegal fires.

Natural Resources Wales confirmed officers discovered and put out two fires during a recent patrol, underscoring the persistent danger facing the site.

A spokesman for the organisation stated: "To help keep Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest safe for visitors, local communities and wildlife, our officers are reminding people to take extra care during the current spell of warm, dry weather following a small number of incidents involving open fires over the weekend."

The agency announced enhanced patrols would continue throughout the summer months to safeguard both visitors and wildlife whilst preventing fire outbreaks.

NRW also confirmed plans to erect additional signage across the reserve to ensure visitors understand the regulations and appreciate the importance of protecting this ecologically significant location.

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