National Trust shuts Cornish beach

Pedn Vounder in Cornwall has long been regarded as one of Britain’s most breathtaking stretches of coast. Voted among the world’s top ten beaches, its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs have drawn visitors for decades - from locals to Poldark fans.

Yet at the height of the summer season, the National Trust has roped off access, citing health and safety concerns about erosion on the path and rip currents in the sea. Red warning signs now block the way, telling the public “No access.”

Locals have questioned the decision. Many note that the path has always been steep and challenging but is little changed from previous decades. One lifelong visitor described it as “a real shame” and worried about the impact on the nearby village campsite and cafe that rely on summer trade.

The National Trust insisted the closure was temporary, although it would not give a time frame for when the beach might reopen. A source at the charity explained that the beach would remain closed until they could come up with alternative solutions to improve safety.

Any solution, such as the construction of a steps or the introduction of lifeguards, is likely to struggle to obtain funding because of the trust’s financial problems.