In the 1960's the sand dunes on the sea front were extensively mined for the heavy minerals rutile and zircon. They were poorly restored, leading to significant erosion. Planting with the South African plant Bitou Bush led to an ecological disaster as it smothers native plants and is relatively easily eroded by wave action.

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In the photo the local MP, Harry Jenson, is inspecting the beach with Fred Northwood from the Progress Association