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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Caitlin Arlow

Welsh beach bans Jet Skis and other water bikes because it claims they are too loud and dangerous to families

A popular Welsh beach is banning Jet Skis and other water bikes because it claims they are too loud and potentially dangerous to families.

From April 1, 2022, the Penrice Estate has decided to no longer allow such craft to launch at Oxwich Bay in Gower.

It said dangerous driving and noise pollution caused by a small number of people had forced the decision, with the priority being the safety and enjoyment of families at the beach.

Read more: The mysterious creatures which have been found washed up on a Welsh beach

In a statement on social media, Penrice Castle Cottages said: "From April 1, 2022, we have decided that we will no longer allow Jet Skis to launch at Oxwich. Whilst we do not like banning things on principle, unfortunately dangerous driving and noise pollution caused by a small number of jet skiers has made the position untenable.

"We aim to provide families with a safe day out on the beach at Oxwich and sadly this was adversely affected by Jet Skis last summer. Boats will be allowed as usual provided they join the Oxwich Boat Club."

It follows an incident last year at nearby Langland Bay when a jet skier and power boater were filmed travelling at speed close to people in the water.

Their actions were branded dangerous by the coastguard at the time, which said one of them later had to be rescued by a lifeboat after running out of fuel.

A scene from the video at the time (WALES NEWS SERVICE)

Commenting on the incident at the time, the coastguard added: "This sort of pleasure craft usage is unacceptable and puts lives in danger. The distance and the excessive speed they pass the swimmer at is reckless."

People commenting on the post agreed and supported the decision.

One user said: "Sad but necessary. Glad you have taken action. We had some close-calls in the water and the incessant noise ruined the atmosphere at the beach.

The silent majority will be grateful for this change. Hopefully it will be enforced without unpleasantness to the gatekeepers."

Another added: "I agree this was necessary. Some people ride perilously close to paddle boarders etc, and even those just having a dip. Sad for the ones who were careful but there are some idiots in the water spoiling it for all."

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