Making Space for Sand - St Gothian Sands Project

Project Overview

The St Gothian and Gwithian- Towans area represents a rare and cherished coastal landscape, rich in ecological diversity, cultural heritage, and recreational value. Mei Loci recognises its significance not only as a local nature reserve but also as a dynamic and complex environment requiring sensitive and strategic planning.
As a well-used and much-loved destination, the area is under pressure from multiple and sometimes conflicting demands—ranging from access and recreation to conservation and low-level commercial use. We understand the complexity of managing these tensions and are committed to creating a balanced, integrated response.
This commission involves the development of a spatial concept that embraces ecological restoration, enhanced and sustainable access, and clear management strategies. It must also reflect the principles of the Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) and contribute to the long-term naturalisation of coastal processes—while responding to pressing issues such as habitat degradation, high visitor footfall, and fragmented oversight.
1.What is your age group?
2.Where do you live?
3.How often do you visit St Gothian Sands?
4.How did you hear about St Gothian Sands?
5.What activities do you usually do here? (Tick all which apply)
6.What time of year do you visit the most? If visiting the area, please tick season which applies.
7.How long do you typically spend at the reserve?
8.How did you travel to St Gothian Sands? (If a frequent visitor, please choose your usual mode of travel)
9.If you travelled to St Gothian Sands via your own vehicle, where did you park? (If a frequent visitor, please select your usual place to park)
10.How do you feel about the parking situation around St Gothian Sands?
Not an issue
Neutral
Issue needs to be addressed
Parking along the road
Accessible spaces
Lack of spaces
11.Do you visit other nearby locations on the same trip? If a first-time visitor, please select other locations you plan to or have visited on the same trip (Tick all which apply)
12.What do you enjoy most about St Gothian Sands? (Tick all which apply)
13.Are there any challenges or issues that affect your experience? (Tick all which apply)
14.How would you rate the current facilities at St Gothian Sands?
Poor
Needs improvement
Neutral
Good
Excellent
Signage and interpretation (maps, wildlife info)
Pathways and accessibility
Seating and picnic areas
Overall visitor experience
15.What would improve your experience at St Gothian Sands? (Tick all which apply)
16.How would you rate your awareness and knowledge of the importance of mobile dunescapes?
No awareness at all
Some awareness
Fully aware of the importance
17.Please rate the factors which you feel have a negative impact on the dunes and surrounding environment? (Tick all which apply)
Not an issue
Neutral
Issue needs to be addressed
Dogs and nutrient enrichment of the dunes
People and footfall erosion
Anti-social behaviour / Trespassing / Car parking
Bikes / motorised vehicles
BBQs / litter
18.How do you think these issues/challenges at St Gothian Sands could be addressed?
19.What future improvements for St Gothian Sands would you like to see? (Tick all which apply)
20.Would you be interested in receiving updates or getting involved in conservation efforts?
21.Any additional comments?