**Council Defends Controversial Aberaeron Harbour Project Amid Local Concerns**
A significant debate has arisen around the Aberaeron Coastal Defence Scheme, a multi-million-pound project which recently saw the completion of a controversial new breakwater. While designed to protect the town, many locals believe it might be causing more harm than good, fearing it could be a looming threat to Aberaeron’s picturesque harbour. With a price tag now £4 million over budget, questions are being raised.
Locals, including Rhys Evans from Aberaeron Yacht Club, express concern over the breakwater’s design. They argue its angle creates a funnel effect, causing a troubling build-up of sediment at the harbour entrance, making navigation risky for boats. “It appears to be trapping materials from South Beach, complicating access,” Evans noted.
Peter Lloyd, another resident, described the current situation as alarming, suggesting the only solution might be to remove the breakwater entirely. However, Ceredigion Council firmly stands by their design, stating the breakwater is intended to mitigate flooding from north-westerly storms, which historically have posed a threat.
In response to the financial concerns, the council is actively seeking external funding to manage the overspend. They have assured regular dredging activities to alleviate sediment issues but haven’t specified the cost or timeline for these efforts yet.
Despite criticism, the council maintains that all modelling and defence studies back the current design, particularly citing protection during recent storms.
While debates continue, Aberaeron will have to wait and see if the anticipated benefits of the breakwater outweigh the growing list of concerns. What’s your take on the new waterfront design? Is it a safeguard or a stumble for Aberaeron’s iconic harbour? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!