Boat owners who land on Stert Island, opposite Burnham-On-Sea, have this week been warned they risk heavy fines by putting wildlife at risk.
Natural England – formerly known as English Nature – manages the wildlife haven and has issued the blunt warning after several groups of sunbathers were seen on the island in Bridgwater Bay during this week’s hot weather, as pictured above.
Robin Prowse, Natural England’s Reserve Manager, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Under the Wildlife Act and Reserve Bye-laws, visiting Stert Island without a permit is prohibited and is a finable offence.”
“While the number of birds nesting on the island has decreased in recent years, the area is still a protected site of special scientific interest.”
“At this time of year we see Ringed Plovers, Oyster Catchers, Shell Ducks, Sky Larks and many other types of birds there which is one of the reasons access is restricted.” Landing is only permitted at certain times of the year and only by permit.”
His comments came after several boats were seen landing on the shore of the eastern side of Stert Island this week, and people stretched out sunbathing on the beach.
Signs on Burnham’s Esplanade spell out that visiting the island is not permitted without a permit and a similar warning about fines was issued two years ago by English Nature. Visitors are welcome to visit nearby Steart.
